In this section of our web site, we will guide you through some of the most recent information available on the health effects of air pollution. They tell us how much of a substance can be in the air without causing harm, based on proven scientific and medical research. Both the federal and state governments set air quality standards. In most cases, California's air quality standards are more protective of health. What this means, is that on some days we breathe unhealthy air.
Ozone is the primary ingredient of summertime smog.
When people breathe ground-level ozone air pollution, the lining of their lungs can become irritated and inflamed. Other groups that are particularly vulnerable are people with asthma and other respiratory conditions, and people who are active outdoors. Particles of these sizes can permanently lodge in the deepest and most sensitive areas of the lung, and can aggravate many respiratory illnesses including asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. Air Toxics Air Toxics is a generic term referring to a harmful chemical or group of chemicals in the air.