When we drink or use water it is a conscious decision. When we see a lake or stream, we notice it. But we are constantly looking through air and we are always immersed in it. We live at the bottom of an "ocean" of air tens of thousands of feet deep. Air is a substance that has weight and moves and behaves like a fluid.

The DNR monitors and maintains air quality within Iowa under the Clean Air Act. The Air Quality Bureau does planning, rulemaking, issues construction and operating permits, monitors air quality and emissions. Technical assistance, compliance and enforcement activities are all a part of efforts to help maintain our air quality.

Unlike water, we consume air automatically, continuously and without choice as to when or where. Adults breathe about 20,000 times daily, with an average volume intake of 15,000 liters. Athletes may consume 30,000 liters of air. Most people drink a few liters of water daily as a volume comparison. Children, with their developing lungs and rapid breathing, can pull in more pollutants per pound of body weight than an adult breathing the same air. On days when air pollution is high, children are at increased risk. Older Iowans are also susceptible to bad air. Because Iowa is unique due to our large percentages of elderly residents, high quality air is especially vital. But clean air is also important for Iowa's economy and businesses. If an area routinely fails to meet outdoor air standards, it can be federally declared in "nonattainment" status under the Clean Air Act. That means stepped up efforts must take place to reduce local emissions with sometimes costly, stringent control equipment. In this manner, the area will hopefully return to its former clean air status. Preserving clean air means less regulatory oversight and less operating costs in addition to less health care costs associated with unhealthy air.

In many areas of the U.S., because air quality suffers, increased regulation and efforts to clean the air exist for consumers, industry, businesses and vehicle owners.

Maintaining clean air and reducing emissions is a daily challenge. A larger U.S. population adds additional challenges. And in Iowa, we drive more miles every year, electrical demand is rising, and people are using and consuming more goods. To maintain and improve air quality, emission reductions must keep pace too.