Criteria pollutants are regulated based on standards referred to as?

The regulation of criteria pollutants is primarily based on primary and secondary standards set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. Primary standards are designed to protect human health, focusing on sensitive populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. These standards ensure that ambient air quality levels are maintained to safeguard public health.

Secondary standards, on the other hand, are aimed at protecting the environment and public welfare from any adverse effects that might occur due to air pollution. These can include impacts on vegetation, wildlife, and physical structures. The existence of both primary and secondary standards indicates a comprehensive approach to air quality management, addressing both health-related and environmental concerns associated with air pollutants.

The other options do not accurately capture the specific regulatory framework for criteria pollutants. Environmental and social standards, local and federal standards, and health and safety standards may be relevant in various contexts but do not represent the specific terminology or classifications used by the EPA in relation to criteria pollutant regulation.