However, utilities and large non-utility power plants would be the most likely sources of nitrogen oxide emissions reductions, EPA said. To deal with the problem of ozone transport, EPA worked in partnership with 37 States and the District of Columbia, industry representatives, and environmental groups. The rulemaking is a direct result of EPA's participation in OTAG and is the EPA's best effort to come to grips with the problem of ozone transport by following OTAG recommendations of July 1997. Ground-level ozone can cause breathing problems, reduced lung function, eye irritation, stuffy nose, and reduced resistance to colds and other infections. It can aggravate asthma and may speed up aging of lung tissue.
Ozone can also cut agricultural yields for crops such as soybeans, wheat, and cotton.
Excessive nitrogen from air pollution can result in acidification of lakes, streams, and soils.