Half of the Americans breathes dirty air as pollution worsens
Nearly half of Americans live in areas with dangerous levels of air pollution. This marks an increase of 25 million people compared to last year.
Key information
- 46% of Americans live in places with hazardous air quality.
- Bakersfield, California is recognized as the most polluted city.
- Climate change exacerbates the pollution problem.
Almost half of the United States' residents breathe air with dangerous levels of pollution. According to the ecowatch.com, this number has grown by 25 million people compared to last year. The American Lung Association's (ALA) report highlights the alarming state of air quality in the country. The report covers three main categories of pollution: short-term and year-round particulate pollution, as well as ozone pollution.
Bakersfield, California, was once again recognized as the most polluted city in the USA for the sixth consecutive time. Other cities in this unfortunate ranking include Los Angeles, San Francisco, and metropolitan areas in Oregon, Texas, and Ohio. Although air pollution has decreased by 78% since 1970, recent years have seen a resurgence of harmful substances.
Climate change, including extreme heat, wildfires, and droughts, contributes to worsening air quality. Forest fires in Canada in 2023 had a significant impact on the northeastern states of the USA. A problem previously primarily affecting western states is now spreading eastward.
Deregulation of regulations
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to withdraw over 30 rules concerning air quality standards. EPA Chief Lee Zeldin claims deregulation will benefit families and energy production. However, the American Lung Association warns it could undo years of progress.
Air pollution is associated with many serious health issues, such as asthma, heart attacks, strokes, and lung cancer. Black individuals are especially at risk because facilities emitting pollution are often located in economically marginalized communities.
