Caw the Standardsb be Justified or Afforded?

Abstract

It is generally acknowledged that the data base was insufficient for quantifiable, scientific definition of clean air when the national ambient air quality standards were adopted by EPA in 1971, and little pertinent knowledge has been added since then. However, recent reviews have concluded that there is no basis for changing the standards, which were set to protect health with an adequate margin of safety and to protect welfare from known and anticipated adverse effects. Examination of the latest available ambient air quality data shows that the United States does not have a national sulfur dioxide problem. Official reports list a few areas where the national standards are being exceeded, but close scrutiny of data gathered by a variety of inaccurate monitoring techniques reveals that such conclusions are suspect in many areas.