Air
On this page:
- Current Air Quality Measurement Data
- Annual burn ban in effect from March 16 through May 14
- DECinfo Locator is a map-based way to easily access many documents and public data pertaining to the environmental quality of specific sites in New York State, as well as the many outdoor recreational opportunities DEC makes available within the state.
- Information on the VW Settlement and the Beneficiary Mitigation Plan and Zero Emission Vehicle Investment is available.
- Get information about Air Permits and Registrations, and Permit Applications and Forms
Get News about Air Quality
Sign up with DEC Delivers in the box to the right to receive Air Mail! - the monthly air quality newsletter that includes public participation news and other air program issues in New York State.
Sources and Effects of Air Pollution
Air pollution damages health and the environment in a variety of ways. Hot summer weather sets the stage for the formation of ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), two major pollutants of concern for human health. Fish and wildlife show harmful effects from acid rain and mercury in air. Greenhouse gases (chiefly carbon dioxide) in the air are changing the world's climate.
Air pollutants originate from many human activities. Most pollutants come from:
- on- and off-road vehicles and power equipment,
- power plants that burn oil, gas or coal, and
- industries that manufacture chemicals and other goods.
Other routine activities, such as mowing the lawn, burning brush, heating with wood, and running errands in automobiles also create air pollution. Everyone can help significantly reduce pollution by following tips on Living the Green Life.
New York State's Air Pollution Control Program
For over 50 years, federal and state air pollution programs have included permits and technical requirements to control emission of criteria pollutants and toxic air contaminants from facilities, along with extensive measurement and monitoring of ambient pollutant levels. Another key element of the State's air pollution control program is the Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance Program, which checks vehicle emissions and requires repairs to failed pollution control equipment.
Federal law requires DEC to submit State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that demonstrate how state air pollution control programs bring areas where air contaminant levels exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) (leaves DEC website) into attainment.
Public Participation Information
All New York State residents are environmental stakeholders - we welcome anyone to join the information sessions and other opportunities posted here. For additional information, contact us via email or phone at 518-402-8401.
- Statewide Community Air Monitoring Initiative Meetings - DEC is undertaking a statewide community-based air quality monitoring effort focusing on ten disadvantaged communities with high air pollution burdens around the state. Check for the latest information on upcoming community meetings, recordings of past meetings, and the status of each location's air monitoring efforts.
- Part 220, Portland Cement Plants, Glass Plants, and Asphalt Pavement Manufacturing Plants - DEC proposed revising 6 NYCRR Part 220 Portland Cement Plants and Glass Plants. Revisions to Subpart 220-1, "Portland Cement Plants," and will include minor changes to better align with federal regulations and reduce monitoring costs. Subpart 220-3, "Asphalt Pavement Manufacturing Plants," will be a new regulation, replacing Subpart 212-4, to reduce criteria and non-criteria pollutants from asphalt plants. Summary of Proposed Revisions to Part 220 (PDF). Slides presented on October 8, 2021 (PDF). Contact Mike Miliani at 518-402-8403 or DAR.Web@dec.ny.gov.
More about Air:
- Air Compliance and Emissions (ACE) Reporting - compliance reports and certifications, capping certifications, and emissions inventory information.
- Air Emission Inventories - DEC develops emissions inventories to comply with federal CAA requirements and NY's CLCPA.
- Air Enforcement and Compliance - summary documents of the nature of the program, the enforcement actions taken, and other information.
- Air Program Forms and Instructions - The Division of Air Resources makes available various forms to download.
- Air Quality Index (AQI) Forecast and Current Observations for New York State - AQI forecast, current hourly air quality measurements
- Air Quality Monitoring - New York State ambient air monitoring networks
- Community Air Quality - Community members and citizens groups often approach DEC when they have air quality concerns. DEC may conduct an in-depth air quality study, as resources allow.
- Open Burning - What happens when you burn household garbage and trash in a backyard burn barrel?
- Controlling Air Pollution from Facilities - Industrial and commercial operations emit pollutants into the air. These pollutants can make breathing difficult, form urban smog, impair visibility, and attack ecosystems
- Controlling Air Pollution from Motor Vehicles - How DEC controls pollution from cars, trucks and other vehicles
- Motor Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) Programs - Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) emissions testing for motor vehicles
- Residential and Commercial Wood Burning - Information for homeowners on burning wood for fuel.
- State Implementation Plans and State Plans - New York prepares a plan, known as a SIP, that outlines control strategies to reduce air pollution in nonattainment areas.
