Benefits of Forecast-based Residential Wood Burning Bans on Air Pollution

Abstract

Sacramento County is likely to be designated as non-attainment for daily average particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter (PM_2.5) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  In an effort to lessen wintertime PM_2.5 pollution, the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD) established a wintertime residential wood burning curtailment rule that restricts burning based on forecasted air quality.  The restriction depends on the “next-day” daily PM_2.5 concentration forecast for Sacramento County.  The wood burning curtailment rule is in effect during winter months (November through February).  The effectiveness of this program in reducing ambient PM_2.5 concentrations was investigated using a combination of numerical modeling, chemical mass balance modeling, and data analysis to develop weight-of-evidence findings.  The results of this evaluation are used to determine program changes that can help Sacramento County attain National Ambient Air Quality Standards for PM_2.5.  The results of this analysis provide a framework from which other similar emission control measures throughout the U.S. can be evaluated.