The Environmental Protection Agency issued a statement declaring the air safe to breathe after the attacks, despite the visible smoke and debris. Officials emphasized that initial assessments found no immediate danger to public health from airborne contaminants. The agency’s conclusion was based on real-time monitoring and standard protocols for evaluating post-incident air quality. Critics, however, questioned whether long-term health risks were fully considered in the immediate clearance.
Why did the Environmental Protection Agency claim the air was safe to breathe following the attacks?