In a nutshell:Alabama and its major utilities are engaged in a legal battle against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over allegations that the state's lenient air pollution regulations are causing smog issues in Texas. The EPA presented model data showing that Alabama power plants are contributing to increased ground-level ozone in Texas cities like Houston and Dallas, exceeding air quality standards. Alabama argues that its contribution to Texas ozone levels is not significant, while the EPA claims Alabama's own data shows otherwise. The big picture:The case highlights the complex challenge of cross-state air pollution regulation and its potential impact on public health and electricity costs. Can artificial intelligence help us avoid air pollution?

Source: New York Times July 20, 2023 15:16 UTC