A.M. Greenlist: Pollution deaths and regulations

>> Up to 24,000 Californians die from fine particulate pollution each year, according to state researchers. The revised figures are based on a review of new research across the nation about the hazards posed by microscopic particles, which sink deep into the lungs. "More measures will be needed, air board officials said, including eventually lowering the maximum permissible levels of soot statewide."

>> A Senate panel overturned the U.S. EPA's decision against California's bid to limit greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. "In December, EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson turned down California's request for a Clean Air Act waiver that would have allowed the state to require that automakers cut global warming emissions by 30% in new cars and light trucks by 2016. Boxer's bill would deem the waiver approved."

>> 2,500 companies and agencies in the Bay Area will have to pay 4.4 cents per metric ton of CO2 they expel starting July 1, due to a decision by the Bay Area Air Quality district. "The fees are expected to generate $1.1 million in its first year to help pay for programs to measure the region's emissions and develop ways to reduce them."

>> Polluting paints are getting phased out from SoCal. "Starting July 1, all flat paints made, sold and used within Orange and major portions of San Bernardino, Riverside and Los Angeles counties must have 50 grams or less of volatile organic compounds per liter."

>> L.A.'s Civic Center employee bicycle facility project wins the Rideshare Diamond Award from Metro and the Ventura County Transportation Commission. The project was created with help from the L.A. County Bicycle Coalition, which is currently organizing the L.A. River Ride you should sign up for.

Photo by Rick Loomis / Los Angeles Times