Environment and energy counsel Doug Benevento authored an article for The Denver Gazette that discusses the improvement in Colorado’s air quality.
Benevento addresses that the Denver Metro Area is facing air quality challenges from ozone; however, he also highlights that the air quality is better now than it has been in decades. He explains that the threshold of acceptable ozone has been lowered over the years and that each time the standard is lowered, the Denver Metro Area is at risk of failing the latest test and, consequently, having to take steps to reduce emissions.
Benevento recommends that the state collaborate to find a creative, workable solution to achieve compliance with ozone standards while not placing another economic burden on employers and citizens. He also suggests that regulators build consensus on next steps with all stakeholders — industry, environmental and political.
