LANSING — The Environmental Protection Agency is asking a U.S. appeals court to scrap tougher 2024 limits on PM2.5 soot pollution, prompting concern from Michigan health advocates.
According to the Public News Service, the soot pollution rollback targets fine particulate matter from vehicle exhaust, power plants and wildfire smoke.
The rollback is part of a broader overhaul of federal climate and air quality policy. The EPA previously said stricter soot standards could prevent about 4,500 premature deaths and generate billions of dollars in health benefits. The agency now argues the tougher limits may impose heavy compliance costs on manufacturers and is reviewing whether the standards were adopted through the correct legal process.
At a recent Michigan Clinicians for Climate Action webinar, registered ICU nurse Kendra Weid said research continues to show fine particulate matter damages the heart, lungs and brain. U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Detroit, also spoke during the event, urging continued focus on clean air and water protections.
Health advocates say Michigan communities already facing high pollution levels could be hit hardest if soot standards are weakened. The EPA maintains some areas may struggle to meet the stricter limits with current technology.