AESOP/TEXASAQS: Texas Air Quality Study

Summary

The Texas Air Quality Study was done In August and September of 2000. The study was designed to improve understanding of the factors that control the formation and transport of air pollutants along the Gulf Coast of southeastern Texas.

Measurements of gaseous, particulate, and hazardous air pollutants were taken at approximately 20 ground stations, located throughout the eastern half of the state. Additional sampling used specially equipped aircraft that can detect air pollutants very quickly, at very low concentrations.

The study will look at the formation, composition, and day-night cycles of ozone and particulate matter, as well as how these pollutants are affected by weather. The large area covered by this study makes it possible to examine long-range transport of air pollutants. Results of this study are assembled into computer models for assessing the health effects of pollution and developing effective strategies to meet National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Until recently, air pollution has been addressed as a local issue. Many of the air quality improvement strategies that are currently in place target specific non-attainment areas. Recent research has demonstrated that ozone, fine particulate matter, and the chemicals that lead to their formation can travel over very long distances. To make a significant difference, future plans will need to take a regional approach.