What is the primary purpose of setting Primary NAAQS?

The primary purpose of setting Primary National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) is to protect public health. Primary NAAQS are established under the Clean Air Act and are specifically designed to safeguard the health of the general population, including sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. These standards are based on scientific research and assessments that identify the levels of air pollutants that could pose risks to human health.

By prioritizing the protection of public health, these standards aim to reduce incidents of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as other health issues related to air pollution. This focus on health protection is a critical aspect of environmental regulation, ensuring that air quality remains safe for all individuals.

While protecting public welfare, regulating industry emissions, and improving air quality are important aspects of environmental policy and regulation, they are secondary to the primary objective of safeguarding public health through the establishment of these standards.