This is a shocking air quality report.
A new report from the American Lung Association highlights a concerning trend in air quality across the United States, showing that nearly half of the population, approximately 156 million people, are living in areas with unhealthy air. According to the “State of the Air” report, pollution from smog and soot has worsened, with 25 million more people exposed to unhealthy levels of air pollution compared to the previous year. This increase marks the highest number of individuals living with poor air quality in the last decade.
While overall air pollution has decreased since the Clean Air Act of 1970, the report points to a recent uptick in pollution levels, which experts attribute to climate change. Rising temperatures and more frequent wildfires are contributing to conditions that worsen ozone pollution across many parts of the country. This issue is particularly problematic in cities like Bakersfield, California, which has been ranked the worst in the country for year-round and short-term particle pollution for six consecutive years.
The report also notes that extreme heat and wildfire smoke are not only affecting the West, but are spreading across the country, reaching as far as the eastern U.S. In 2023, smoke from wildfires in Canada significantly impacted air quality nationwide. The Lung Association’s environmental health director expressed surprise at how strong the effects were, particularly in the northeastern U.S.
The report comes at a time when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is rolling back several environmental regulations, including those aimed at reducing vehicle emissions. The Lung Association warns that these changes could undo decades of progress in improving air quality, putting public health at greater risk. Experts stress that air pollution is linked to a range of health problems, including asthma, heart disease, strokes, and developmental issues in children.
In particular, Black Americans are disproportionately affected by air pollution, experiencing higher rates of serious health issues. The Lung Association continues to advocate for stronger regulations to protect air quality and public health, emphasizing the importance of maintaining progress in environmental protections.
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