Compare These Numbers With China's 684 Experienced Today And Tell Us Who Has The Cleanest Air

Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Trends

PM2.5 Data Omitted from Air Trends Assessment

EPA has identified data quality issues affecting PM2.5 monitoring data in some states. This data is not included in the PM2.5trends assessment or summary tables on this website. More information

On this page:

• National Trends in PM2.5 Levels
• Regional Trends in PM2.5 Levels

---

 

National Trends in PM2.5 Levels

Using a nationwide network of monitoring sites, EPA has developed ambient air quality trends for particle pollution, also called Particulate Matter (PM). PM2.5 describes fine inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller.  Under the Clean Air Act, EPA sets and reviews national air quality standards for PM. Air quality monitors measure concentrations of PM throughout the country. EPA, state, tribal and local agencies use that data to ensure that PM in the air is at levels that protect public health and the environment. Nationally, average PM2.5 concentrations have decreased over the years. For information on PM standards, sources, health effects, and programs to reduce PM, please see www.epa.gov/pm-pollution.
How to Interpret the Graphs

View the chart data in Microsoft Excel 
View the chart data in HTML  (New window opens) 

Top of Page

---

 

Regional Trends in PM2.5 Levels

Air quality trends can vary regionally. The following climatically consistent regions within the contiguous United States provide a relevant way to look at regional trends in air quality.

Source: NOAA National Climatic Data CenterSelect a region: (graph appears below)

CentralUpper MidwestNortheastNorthwestSouthSoutheastSouthwestWestNorthern Rockies and Plains

View the chart data in Microsoft Excel 
View the chart data in HTML  (New window opens)