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City of Pleasanton—Hidden Canyon Residences and Preserve Air Quality Draft EIR 3.2-8 FirstCarbon Solutions https://adecinnovations.sharepoint.com/sites/PublicationsSite/Shared Documents/Publications/Client (PN-JN)/2148/21480016/EIR/3 - Draft EIR/21480016 Sec03-02 Air Quality.docx processing is currently the primary source of lead emissions. The highest levels of lead in air are generally found near lead smelters. Other stationary sources are waste incinerators, utilities, and lead-acid battery manufacturers. 6 Sulfates Sulfates are chemicals containing sulfur in its fully oxidized form (SO42-) combined with metal or hydrogen ions. In California, most sulfur emissions come from burning fuels like gasoline and diesel. When these fuels burn, a small amount of sulfate is released directly, but most sulfate in the air forms later. During combustion, sulfur in the fuel turns into SO2, which then reacts in the atmosphere to become sulfate PM. This conversion happens quickly and thoroughly in California’s urban areas due to local weather conditions, making sulfates a significant part of the PM in the air. 7 Visibility-reducing Particles PM pollution affects the environment by reducing visibility, creating haze. These particles come in various shapes, sizes, and chemical compositions, originating from windblown dust, soot, and the chemical transformation of gaseous pollutants (e.g., sulfates, nitrates, organic carbon particles). These fine particles, caused largely by combustion of fuel, can travel hundreds of miles causing visibility impairment. The most apparent symptom of PM pollution is visibility degradation due to the absorption and scattering of light by particles and gases in the atmosphere before it reaches the observer. Certain types of particles such as sulfates scatter more light, particularly during humid conditions.8 Asbestos Asbestos is a TAC and a federal hazardous air pollutant of concern during construction and renovation. Asbestos is the common name for a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that can separate into thin, inhalable fibers. While there are many different types of asbestos; all forms of asbestos are harmful to human health. It has been known to cause lung cancer and mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of lung tissue that is nearly always fatal. Since asbestos is naturally occurring in rock structures, it is a concern during construction and mining operations when it has the potential to be present.9 Toxic Air Contaminants (TACS) Toxic air contaminants, also known as HAPs or air toxics, are pollutants that can cause serious health problems, including cancer, birth defects, and other severe health issues. These contaminants can be gases, like benzene and toluene, or compounds and metals such as asbestos, cadmium, mercury, and chromium. They come from various sources, including industrial processes, vehicle emissions, and chemical reactions in the atmosphere. The EPA identifies and regulates 188 toxic air pollutants. 6 California Air Resources Board (ARB). 2023. Lead & Health. Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/lead-and-health. Accessed October 10, 2024. 7 California Air Resources Board (ARB). 2023. Sulfate & Health. Website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/sulfate-and-health. Accessed October 10, 2024. 8 California Air Resources Board (ARB). 2023. Visibility-Reducing Particles & Health. https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/visibility- reducing-particles-and-health. Accessed October 10, 2024. 9 United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 2023. Learn About Asbestos. Website: https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/learn- about-asbestos#find. Accessed October 10, 2024.