Benefits and Costs of the Clean Air Act
Cross-State Air Pollution Rule in Arkansas
The Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR) will help ensure that Arkansas families aren't suffering the consequences of harmful air pollution generated far from home. Facilities have until March 1, 2013 to demonstrate compliance with the rule, which slashes millions of tons of smokestack pollution that can lead to premature death, heart attacks, bronchitis and asthma.
Carried long distances across the country by wind and weather, power plant emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) continually travel across state lines. As the pollution is transported, it reacts in the atmosphere and contributes to harmful levels of smog (ground-level ozone) and soot (fine particles), which are scientifically linked to widespread illnesses and premature deaths and prevent many cities and communities from enjoying healthy air quality.
With this rule in place, EPA is ensuring that future generations will have access to clean air and all the benefits that come along with healthy, vibrant communities.
Health Benefits in Arkansas and Neighboring States in 2014
- The CSAPR will improve air quality in Arkansas, providing the state with important public health benefits, including up to 520 fewer premature deaths each year.
- The states total health benefits as a result of the final rule will be between $1.7 billion and $4.2 billion each year.
- These health benefits are due in part to air pollution reductions from the following states: AL, GA, IL, IN, KY, MI, MO, MS, NC, OH, OK, SC, TN, TX, and WV.
- Arkansass air pollution reductions will contribute to improved air quality in the following states: AL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MI, MS, MO, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, and WI.