Sustainability and Social Justice

Development of an Air Toxics Program in Massachusetts

Halina S. Brown, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Carol A. Rowan, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Donna R. Bishop, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

Abstract

The paper discusses the state program which involves the identification of compounds present in the ambient air in Massachusetts, systematic evaluation of the health effects associated with those compounds, ranking compounds into hazard categories, and formulating chemical-specific ambient air standards. Underlying these elements is the concept of a health-based regulatory system aimed at protecting all individuals equally. At the core of the system, the chemical health effects assessment provides a consistent approach to ranking and standard-setting for a large number of compounds.