With more attention given to keeping the environment safe and clean and the air free of toxins, it's best to stay current on government regulations on air pollution. Originally established in 1963, the Clean Air Act aims to reduce smog and air pollution in general. As a business, it's vital to know what rules and restrictions are put in place so you can run your business smoothly and legally.

Air pollution laws change annually, especially state laws. You need to stay up-to-date not only for the sake of the state and country, but also for your business' benefit. If you don't comply with standards set in place, you run the risk of having your business shut down. What good is a business if it doesn't operate? In order to keep your business knowledgeable and in compliance of air pollution laws and regulations, consider the following:

1. Stay current on government regulations on air pollution.

2. Keep your company in compliance with air pollution laws and regulations.

3. Adhere to govt regulations and legislation for air pollution control by minimizing your company's carbon footprint.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Remain informed about air pollution laws and regulations and how this relates to your business

Applying the most recent air pollution rules and regulations helps you stay on top of what you can and cannot do. The last thing you need is to have your business shut down due to someone in your business not knowing current govt regulations and legislation for air pollution control.

I recommend: The Environmental Protection Agency lists an entire section devoted to air pollution, including emissions, monitoring and quality standards and planning. Another source is Environmental Health & Safety Online where you can look up information regarding the Clean Air Act as well as data on indoor air quality.

Comply with government air pollution regulations, and set high standards for your business

If you're in need of permits, an air-quality inspection or have any type of air pollution question, you need to know who to contact. While you could go straight up to the EPA, it's best to start at the state level.

I recommend: The National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NACAA) represents air pollution control agencies in 53 states and territories across the United States. Choose the state for which you wish to find an agency, then contact the air control agency for more information. Likewise, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) provides information regarding indoor air quality. Check out its site to find current information about air quality in your state.

Lower your company's carbon footprint while following the federal air pollution regulations

As a business owner, it can be difficult to find ways to lower emissions if you don't know where to start. If you have many locations, large facilities and thousands of workers, knowing how to cut costs can be tricky. There are several online calculators to help you learn the tricks to saving money while also adhering to the air pollution rules and regulations.

I recommend: The GreenLife Organization has created a business calculator to help you identify carbon and other greenhouse gases your company emits due to daily operations. ENERGYguide lists a customized business analyzer that can help you increase employee productivity, compare your facility's usage to other nearby businesses and help you save money overall. You'll discover how your business's choices affect the environment, allowing you to make any changes to follow the laws for clean air.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When the government went to pass the Clean Air Act amended legislation and control air pollution in 1990, it required each state government to develop a Small Business Technical and Environmental Compliance Assistance Program. These state programs can help small business owners comply with amended acts to the legislation.