Asheville Air Quality

AB Air Quality staff operate an ambient air monitoring network in Buncombe County to determine levels of ground level ozone and fine particles. These are key pollutants of concern here in the southeast.

While ozone in the stratosphere is beneficial in shielding us from harmful ultraviolet rays, ozone at ground level is actually a health hazard. Ground level ozone is not emitted directly into the air, but is created by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the presence of sunlight. Emissions from industrial facilities and electric utilities, motor vehicle exhaust, gasoline vapors, and chemical solvents are some of the major sources of NOx and VOC. Breathing ozone can trigger a variety of health problems, particularly for children, the elderly, and people of all ages who have lung diseases such as asthma. Ground level ozone can also have harmful effects on sensitive vegetation and ecosystems.

Particulate matter (PM), also known as particle pollution, is a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets that get into the air. Once inhaled, these particles can affect the heart and lungs and cause serious health effects.

The data we gather is part of the national ambient monitoring program and is used to determine compliance with the national ambient air quality standards ozone and fine particles. The values derived from the Toxics Special Purpose Monitors are being used to determine background concentrations of dozens of toxic pollutants.

According to Regional Allergy Partners, which has since merged with Allergy Partners of WNC, the geography of our mountainous region makes ours a particularly allergy prone area. Not only are there more species of plants here at a higher density than most other areas, but we have varying elevations with which to contend. Willow and maple trees, for instance, will pollinate early in low, warm river valleys, and several weeks later at high elevations. Since pollen grains travel up to 50 miles in our breezes, we are challenged by them throughout this span of weeks. In other words, we have a double-long season for just about everything here! Allergy Partners of Western North Carolina volunteer to count pollen in Asheville. They are professionals of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and certified to count the pollen.

Indoor Air Quality is an important issue in office buildings, schools, and homes because people spend at least 90% of their time indoors where pollutant levels are often higher than outdoors.

With the exception of asbestos removal, AB Air Quality does not regulate indoor air quality. The North Carolina Department of Labor regulates indoor air quality in the workplace.

US EPA has consistently ranked indoor air pollution among the top five environmental risks to public health. Children, the elderly, and those in poor health are most at risk for the effects of indoor air quality problems. These groups also spend most of their time indoors.