The most basic is the Ambient Air Monitoring Program, which collects national air quality data on criteria pollutants: Carbon Monoxide (CO), Oxides of Nitrogen (NO2 and NO3), Ozone (O3), Particulate Matter (PM) - both particulates with aerodynamic diameters below 10 micrometers (PM-10) and particulates with aerodynamic diameters below 2.5 micrometers (PM-2.5), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). The program is carried out by EPA and State and local air pollution agencies with oversight and guidance provided by EPA.
Ambient air quality monitoring is the systematic, long-term assessment of pollutant levels by measuring the concentration and types of certain pollutants in the surrounding, outdoor air. Some of these pollutants (commonly called ‘Criteria Pollutants’) are considered hazardous to human health and their levels are regulated by government agencies around the world, including the US EPA. There are different methods to measure any given pollutant. A developer of a monitoring strategy should examine the options to determine which methods are most appropriate, taking into account the main uses of the data, initial investment costs for equipment, operating costs, reliability of systems, and ease of operation.
The locations for monitoring stations depend on the purpose of the monitoring. Most air quality monitoring networks are designed to support human health objectives, and monitoring stations are established in population centers. They may be near busy roads, in city centers, or at locations of particular concern (e.g., a school, hospital, particular emissions sources). Monitoring stations also may be established to determine background pollution levels, away from urban areas and emissions sources.
The aims of programmed are the basis for measuring criteria pollutants
And determine the location of monitoring stations.