Lead
National Trends in Lead Levels
Local Trends in Lead Levels
National Trends in Lead Levels
Under the Clean Air Act, EPA sets and reviews national air quality standards for lead. Air quality monitors measure concentrations of lead throughout the country. EPA, state, tribal and local agencies use those data to ensure that lead is at levels that protect public health and the environment. EPA has tracked air quality trends for lead using data from this network of monitors. Trends from 1980-2007 and from 1990-2007 are shown here. Nationally, average lead concentrations decreased dramatically after EPA's regulations reduced the lead content in gasoline. For information on lead standards, sources, health effects, and programs to reduce lead, please see www.epa.gov/air/lead.
How to Interpret the Graphs
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How to Interpret the Graphs
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Air quality trends can vary from one area to another. Local trends are available at individual monitoring locations with an adequate record of historical data.