§ 551. Declaration of policy and purpose

(a) It is hereby declared to be the public policy of this State and the purpose of this chapter to achieve and maintain such levels of air quality as will protect human health and safety, and to the greatest degree practicable, prevent injury to plant and animal life and property, foster the comfort and convenience of the people, promote the economic and social development of this State, and facilitate the enjoyment of the natural attractions of this State.

(b) It is also declared that local and regional air pollution control programs are to be supported to the extent practicable as essential instruments for the securing and maintenance of appropriate levels of air quality.

(c) To these ends it is the purpose of this chapter to provide for a coordinated statewide program of air pollution prevention, abatement, and control, for an appropriate distribution of responsibilities among the State and local units of government, and to facilitate cooperation across jurisdictional lines in dealing with problems of air pollution not confined within single jurisdictions, and to provide a framework within which all values may be balanced in the public interest.