By KWMU/AP
SAINT LOUIS, MO – The St. Louis metropolitan area is not meeting federal standards for fine particle air pollution.
The Environmental Protection Agency made the announcement yesterday, citing the City of St. Louis and the counties of St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson and Franklin.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has until October 20th to challenge the decision.
States with problem areas are required by the Clean Air Act to identify ways to reduce fine particle pollution. They might include stricter air permits and controls on industrial facilities, and changes in transportation.
Fine-particle pollution is linked to aggravated asthma, chronic bronchitis and other health problems.