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Air
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) is responsible for safeguarding the quality of the air across the state, and this work is carried out through a combination of interconnected components and functions. Air‑quality protection is not the responsibility of a single division; instead, it relies on coordinated activities performed by multiple teams throughout the agency. These activities include permitting, planning, monitoring, reporting, enforcement, and the development of public resources. Each function plays a distinct role, yet all contribute to the shared goal of ensuring clean, healthy air for Louisiana’s residents, businesses, and natural environments. This page introduces these core components and explains how they work together to support effective air‑quality management.
One of the core activities of the components is Permitting. Air permits establish the operating conditions, emission limits, and control requirements for facilities that release pollutants into the atmosphere. Several LDEQ divisions work together to review applications, evaluate technical information, and ensure that each permit meets state and federal standards. This coordinated approach helps protect air quality while supporting responsible economic development.
Another key service is Planning and Assessment, which focuses on understanding long‑term air‑quality trends and developing strategies to meet national air‑quality standards established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This activity includes emissions forecasting, air‑quality modeling, and preparation of State Implementation Plans (SIPs). Multiple divisions contribute data, analysis, and technical expertise to support informed decision‑making and statewide air‑quality goals.
LDEQ also performs extensive Monitoring and Reporting to measure the condition of Louisiana’s air. A statewide network of monitoring stations collects data on pollutants such as ozone, particulate matter, and sulfur dioxide. This information is shared with the public through the Air Quality Index (AQI), a national system that communicates daily air conditions in a clear and accessible format. Several divisions support this activity by maintaining equipment, validating data, and submitting required reports to federal agencies.
Ensuring compliance with air‑quality laws is achieved through the agency’s Enforcement activities. These services include inspections, complaint investigations, compliance reviews, and enforcement actions when violations occur. Multiple divisions contribute to this work by providing technical evaluations, legal support, and follow‑up oversight. Enforcement activities help maintain a level playing field for regulated facilities and protect the health of Louisiana residents.
To support the public and regulated community, LDEQ maintains a comprehensive Forms and Applications resource area. This section includes permit applications, reporting forms, instructions, guidance documents, and frequently asked questions (FAQs). These materials are developed and maintained by several divisions to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency with current regulations. The Forms and Applications section helps users navigate requirements and access the information they need.