Unlike other gaseous air pollutants, ground level ozone is not directly emitted by any sources. Ozone is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with extreme sunlight. Sources of ozone precursors include coal-fired power plants, gas stations, natural sources and fuel combustion in cars and trucks.

Effects on Health

Ozone impacts the respiratory system causing irritation to the nose, throat and lungs. The long-term effects of ozone are due to the inflammation of the lungs when ozone is inhaled. This type of exposure can be compared to repeated sunburns and can lead to permanent scarring of lung tissue, loss of lung function and reduced lung elasticity.

Effects on Metro Atlanta

Over the last several decades, the country has witnessed a substantial increase in the number of automobiles and the associated increase in the number of vehicle-miles traveled (VMT). Atlanta has experienced tremendous growth, adding nearly a million people since the turn of the century. As a result, ozone has become a particularly persistent problem.

Monitoring

In Georgia, the ozone monitoring season is March 1 – October 31, when temperatures are the highest. However, ozone is a problem year-round. EPD maintains ozone monitoring data in Georgia.

The current standard for 8-hour ozone is 0.075 ppm. Learn more about ozone in Atlanta. (PDF)

The Clean Air Act has established a nonattainment area classification system for ozone based on the severity of the ozone problem. The more severe the designation, the more time an area is provided to demonstrate attainment, but the implemented controls must be more stringent. The metro region is currently classified as a Moderate 8-hour ozone nonattainment area, effective April 7, 2008.