Overview:
- The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has informed the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that Wayne County fails to meet the updated air quality standards for fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
- This triggers its reclassification as a nonattainment area, potentially leading to stricter pollution controls for industries, enhanced vehicle emissions testing, and increased air monitoring.
- Non-compliance with air quality improvement plans may result in federal sanctions, including transportation funding restrictions and stricter permitting requirements for new industrial projects.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has notified the Environmental Protection Agency that Wayne County does not meet the revised air quality standard for fine particulate matter (PM2.5), initiating the process for its redesignation as a nonattainment area—where pollution levels exceed federal standards.
The EPA revised its National Ambient Air Quality Standards in February 2024, lowering the annual PM2.5 standard from 12 to 9 micrograms per cubic meter. In response, EGLE officially notified EPA on Friday that the EPA that Wayne and Kalamazoo counties do not meet the new standard, triggering the process for their redesignation as nonattainment areas.
Once redesignated for non-attainment, affected areas must develop a State Implementation Plan outlining strategies to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
Failure to comply with air quality improvement plans may result in federal sanctions, including restrictions on transportation funding and stricter permitting requirements for new industrial projects.
In addition to Wayne and Kalamazoo counties, EGLE has identified other areas in Michigan that may be affected by nonattainment status, including locations with industrial activity and transportation-related emissions. Officials note that residents in these areas may experience increased exposure levels, raising health concerns.
Health impacts of fine particulate matter exposure
Delicate particulate matter consists of microscopic pollutants that can enter the lungs and bloodstream, with studies linking it to respiratory and cardiovascular issues. According to EGLE, populations at higher risk include children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or heart disease.
Public health studies suggest fine particulate pollution may increase emergency visits for respiratory illnesses and other health complications.
EGLE and the EPA will collaborate over the next year to finalize nonattainment designations and determine the required measures for compliance. This process may include implementing stricter emissions controls for industries, expanding air quality monitoring, and adjusting permitting for pollution sources.
Next steps
- February 7, 2025: EGLE submitted its final nonattainment recommendations to the EPA, triggering the redesignation process.
- USEPA has one year to review the state’s recommendation and take final action. The agency may agree with the state’s recommendation or make alternate designations. If necessary, the decision can be extended for an additional year.
- October 2025: The EPA reviews state recommendations and opens a 30-day public comment period for further feedback.
- February 7, 2026: The EPA finalizes nonattainment area decisions, formally requiring air quality improvement measures.
- 2029: Michigan must submit a plan to bring nonattainment areas into compliance or risk federal penalties.
The EPA designation process and related updates can be accessed at EPA.gov.
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