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Air Quality
The combination of surrounding mountains, abundant sunshine, thermal air inversions and wind patterns make the Sacramento Valley susceptible to high levels of air pollution.

In Sacramento, pollutants of greatest concern are ozone precursors [volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx)], carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM), and other visibility reducing material. The largest single source of pollutants in the Sacramento area is automobile exhaust.

Air quality in Sacramento County is regulated by several agencies including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air Resources Board (ARB), and the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD).

The EPA sets federal ambient air quality standards, while the ARB sets state ambient air quality standards, which limit air pollutants considered harmful to public health (primary standards) and welfare (secondary standards). The state ambient air quality standards are more stringent than the federal standards. Sacramento County is currently designated as a nonattainment area for both the state and federal ozone and particulate matter health standards. The SMAQMD has prepared an Air Quality Attainment Plan which describes the local measures planned to be implemented to achieve the federal and state air quality standards.

Ozone is formed by a chemical reaction between VOCs and NOx in the presence of sunlight. Once formed, ozone is widely dispersed, producing a regional air pollution problem rather than a localized one. Carbon monoxide is a directly emitted pollutant, generally localized near major thoroughfares and heavily congested urban streets. Particulate matter consists of discrete particles (liquid droplets or solids) in the air generated by motor vehicle fuel combustion, windblown dust, fireplaces and wood stoves, and agricultural burning. Adverse health effects associated with these air pollutants include: aggravated asthma, heart and lung disease; decreased lung function; acute respiratory symptoms such as severe chest pain, gasping, and aggravated coughing; chronic bronchitis; and premature death.

You can personally help reduce pollutant emissions and improve air quality in the Sacramento region if you:
  • Carpool to work with a coworker.
  • Share a ride with friends to social activities.
  • Walk, ride a bike, or try public transit for some trips.
  • Regularly tune-up your vehicle so the engine will run smoothly and pollute less.
  • Use electric, rather than gas-powered, lawn and garden equipment.
  • Purchase energy-efficient and reduced emission vehicles.
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Department of Environmental Review and Assessment
827 7th Street, Sacramento California 95814
phone (916) 874-7914  fax (916) 874-8343