The Environmental Protection Agency is calling on Iowa businesses to lower their small-particle pollution within the next two years. The EPA sent a more stringent request to Muscatine, asking them to comply within 18 months.

According to the EPA’s website, these small particles cause health problems and damage the environment. The most common health effects include an increase in respiratory symptoms, decrease in lung function and the aggravation of asthma symptoms. Additionally, the particles can turn bodies of water acidic and damage farm crops.

On the other side, The Des Moines Register reports that the expenses connected to limiting small-particle pollution could limit job creation:

Branstad spokesman Tim Albrecht said the administration is studying the new rules and is working with the DNR and business groups to make sure the requirements do not block future job growth.

“There is no higher priority for our administration than job creation, and the governor will remain vigilant in identifying any regulatory impediments to job creation in Iowa, and work to ensure Iowa businesses are able to grow, prosper and expand here,” Albrecht said.