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...... ....1 CJl CD Colorado's scenery, environment, and vibrant economy draw thousands of new residents to the State each year. The Governor's Blue Ribbon Panel Report projects that Colorado's population will grow from 2,800,000 in 1980 to 3,500,000 in 1990 and 4,500,000 in 2000. Most of this growth will occur along the Front Range. A corresponding decrease in environmental quality in these areas can be expected, unless measures are taken to plan for and mitigate the adverse environmental impacts associated with this growth. Colorado is an energy and mineral rich State with substantial reserves of coal, oil shale, oil, gas, uranium, molybdenum and various other resources. The exploration, mining (or drilling), and processing of these resources--along with the growth associated with this development--could have substantial impact on air and water quality. Other potential problems associated with energy and mineral development include the disposal of hazardous and other wastes and excessive levels of radiation. The following discussion summarizes the major environmental health problems and issues facing Colorado. 1. AIR QUALITY Air quality problems in Colorado are largely a result of man's activities--including transportation and stationary sources. Motor vehicles are a significant source of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and particulates. They emit hydrocarbons which, along with nitrogen oxides, are precursors to the formation of ozone. Sulfur oxides along with nitrogen oxides react to form acid particulates which contribute to acid deposition. Finally, vehicle particulates and nitrates result in reduced visibility and some odor problems. Stationary sources emit a broad spectrum of pollutants into the ambient air including: carbon monoxide, particulates, hydrocarbons, odors, lead, sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, and various hazardous and toxic substances. These emissions affect both the health and welfare of the citizens of Colorado. A. Carbon Monoxide Emissions from motor vehicles are the largest single source of carbon monoxide (CO) in Colorado. Emissions from traditional large stationary sources along with wood burning devices and other home heating units, and open burning are also significant sources of CO. CO is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas which has direct health effects on people. It enters ,the body through the lungs, where ,it is absorbed into the bloodstream. CO attaches to the oxygen carrying hemoproteins, particularly hemoglobin, where it displaces oxygen from red blood cells. Hemoglobin binds 240 times more readily with CO than oxygen. Blood laden with CO can weaken heart contractions, lowering the volume of blood and oxygen distributed to various parts of the body. The depletion of oxygen affects the central nervous system causing impairment of judgement and response capabilities. Prolonged exposure to high levels will cause death. -2-