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This is not the current EPA website. To navigate to the current EPA website, please go to www.epa.gov. This website is historical material reflecting the EPA website as it existed on January 19, 2025. This website is no longer updated and links to external websites and some internal pages may not work. More information »

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Lead (Pb) Air Pollution

  • Sources of Lead Air Pollution

    Sources of lead emissions vary from from place to place, with highest air concentrations of lead usually found near lead smelters.

Lead Basics

  • How does lead get in the air?
  • What are the effects of lead on human health?
  • What are the effects of lead on ecosystems?
  • How has the amount of lead in air changed over time?

Setting and Reviewing the Standards

  • What are lead air quality standards?
  • How are they developed and reviewed?
  • What scientific and technical information supports review?
  • How else does the EPA regulate emissions of lead (Pb) into the air?

Implementing the Standards

  • Designations: how do we know if an area is not meeting standards?
  • What are the state implementation plan (SIP) requirements?
  • How do states develop SIPs and start improving air quality?

Other Common Air Pollutants

  • Ground-level Ozone
  • Particulate Matter (PM)
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO)
  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

See information on all criteria air pollutants.

Contact Us about Lead Air Pollution to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on November 18, 2024
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