The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on July 13 that it was taking the final actions needed to approve Knoxville Tennessee, along with Blount and Anderson for attainment status in regards to the agency's 2008 ozone standards.
To reach attainment status, a region needs to hit air quality standards for three years. In the case of the Knoxville area, the designation is in response to met air quality goals in 2012 and 2013 and 2001. It's expected to bring a fair amount of business and industry to the area, and with it, economic growth.
Speaking to the decision, Heather McTeer Toney, the EPA's regional administrator, said that the agency commends "the Knoxville area for the effort it has undertaken towards improving air quality and reaching this accomplishment."
The Knoxville Metropolitan Statistical Area has spent over 20 years working with the EPA and other key players to develop and implement anti-pollution strategies.
Both Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett and United States Senator Lamar Alexander released statements applauding the region's progress and hopeful for the economic boons to come. It means "more good jobs and healthier air for east Tennesseans," said Sen. Alexander.
Mayor Burchett and Sen. Alexander are expected to hold press conferences on the matter soon.
Because of how rapidly they can change, staying on top of and following EPA regulations can be difficult and time consuming. Hiring environmental consultants can help you stay on top of the latest trends and regulations and find quick, cost effective ways to adjust your business to meet them.