The American Lung Association’s 2019 “State of the Air” report found the Louisville/Bardstown metro region ranked 26th as the most polluted city in the nation for ozone (smog) pollution. The region experienced more high ozone days and retained the ranking it received last year. However, the metro area ranked tied for 30th most polluted for year-round particle levels, a marked improvement from its 21st ranking last year. This is the best-ever ranking for Louisville/Bardstown and the region now meets the national standards. The annual air quality “report card” tracks Americans’ exposure to unhealthful levels of ozone or particle pollution, both of which can be deadly.