What major action did the Clean Air Act of 1970 implement?

The Clean Air Act of 1970 was a landmark piece of legislation aimed at improving air quality and protecting public health. One of its major actions was the establishment of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). These standards set allowable limits for specific air pollutants that are considered harmful to public health and the environment. The purpose of the NAAQS is to maintain air quality in a manner that protects the general public, including sensitive populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

By creating these standards, the Clean Air Act empowered the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to monitor air quality and enforce regulations that would help achieve and maintain these established limits. This was a significant step in promoting cleaner air and regulating various sources of pollution comprehensively, rather than simply addressing individual pollutants or sources in isolation. The effectiveness of these standards has led to substantial improvements in air quality over the decades since their implementation.