Planning, Rules and Research Division
The Planning and Research Division provides several services related to the District's goal to attain and maintain ambient air quality standards, and thereby protect public health:
Prepare Source Inventories
Compile quantitative estimates of air pollutant emissions from all the sources in the Bay Area. Inventories are used to identify sources subject to further control, and as input data for computer models to simulate dispersion of pollutants in the atmosphere.
Analyze Air Quality Problems
Review and analyze air quality measurements and weather conditions; apply statistical analysis and computer models to predict future pollutant levels at local and regional scales. Compare with ambient air quality standards.
Prepare air quality plans - Prepare and submit regional plans, showing how the region will comply with ambient air quality standards in future years. Include technical analysis, growth projections, and attainment strategy with new control measures.
Develop New Rules
Coordinate District work to adopt new rules and improve existing rules for control of air pollution. Identify promising measures and complete the technical and administrative steps needed to bring new regulatory language for District Board approval.
Reduce Health Risks from Air Toxics
Implement the Community Air Risk Evaluation (CARE) program to evaluate and reduce health risk from air toxics in the nine Bay Area counties.
Protect Our Climate
Integrate climate protection measures into the District's core activities and business practices. Collaborate and create partnerships with, and offer incentives to, local and regional governments, the business community, and non-profit groups throughout the Bay Area. Conduct education and outreach to all Bay Area entities about actions we can all take to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming and climate change.
Promote "Smart Growth"
Review air quality impacts of general plans and development projects. Identify potential problems and provide comments re significant impacts. Support alternatives that will be most beneficial - or least harmful - to air quality. Support land use and transportation decisions that reduce motor vehicle dependence.
