The public is becoming increasingly concerned about the problem of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air. EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee has stated that all air quality control work should take public health as its starting point. With this in mind, the EPA will allocate NT$4 billion over the next two years toward assisting local governments bring about large improvements in air quality. Specifically, the EPA is aiming for a 20% reduction over the next two years in the number of red alert days (PM2.5 concentrations of over 54 μg/m³) recorded by air quality monitoring stations in every city and county, and a 50% reduction within four years. Addressing public concerns over PM2.5 pollution, EPA Minister Ying-Yuan Lee has stated that all work being done on air quality control should take public health as its starting point. The EPA is now working hard to make this happen. The time period for implementing the already-approved Clean Air Action Plan will be shortened from six years to four years. In addition, targets for air quality improvement will be established. Cooperation between central and local governments will be strengthened and the necessary amount of money will be allocated to ensure that the air quality targets are achieved. Minister Lee has set two targets for air quality improvement: 1. Reducing the number of air quality red alert days Over the next two years the number of red alert days (PM2.5 > 54 μg/m³) recorded by air quality monitoring stations in every city and county must be reduced by 20% – and by 50% within four years – to significantly reduce the chances of residents being exposed to the dangers of PM2.5. Performance in meeting these targets will be a major factor in the evaluation of air quality improvement achievements, particularly in areas that have not reached air quality standards, and for deciding the amount of subsidies local governments are eligible for. 2. Increasing the allocation of funds to strengthen cooperation between central and local governments The EPA is encouraging local governments to get involved in the work of improving air quality by putting forward air pollutant emission reduction plans that are tailored to meet local needs and conditions. If the plans are approved after evaluation then the EPA will subsidize two-thirds of the cost of implementation, and the subsidy can also be adjusted according to changing demands. The EPA will spend NT$4 billion over the next two years to assist local governments with improving air quality.