What did the Air Act amend in 1987 to include?

The Air Act of 1987 was significant because it expanded the definition of pollutants to include noise as a pollutant. This was essential in addressing the growing concerns over noise pollution, which affects environmental quality and human health. Noise pollution can lead to various health issues, including hearing loss, stress, and sleep disturbances, which made it necessary to regulate and control.

Prior to this amendment, the Air Act primarily focused on air quality in relation to airborne contaminants such as gases and particulates. By including noise, the act recognized the impact of non-auditory environmental factors on people's well-being, reflecting a broader understanding of what constitutes environmental pollution.

In contrast, while water, soil, and light can indeed be considered pollutants in various contexts, they were not included under the specific amendment of the Air Act in 1987. Each of these elements has its own regulatory frameworks and environmental laws dealing with their respective impacts and pollution control. Therefore, noise as a pollutant was a pivotal addition to address a significant environmental concern comprehensively.