Los Angeles, California-A new report released by the American Lung Association reveals that nearly 40% of the population in the United States are residing in regions with unhealthy levels of air pollution. This troubling statistic highlights a concerning trend of declining air quality in the country, exacerbated by the impacts of climate change. With the effects of climate change intensifying, the progress made in achieving clean air standards set by the Clean Air Act is at risk of being undone.
The report, which marks the 25th annual analysis of the “State of the Air” in the U.S., indicates that the number of individuals living in areas with unhealthy levels of air pollution has risen to 131 million between 2020 and 2022. This figure represents an increase of nearly 12 million people since the previous survey conducted a year ago. The rise in unhealthy air quality days has also reached unprecedented levels, with more “very unhealthy” or “hazardous” days than ever before.
Experts point to the growing threat of wildfires as a significant source of pollution that poses challenges for policymakers. The increase in wildfire smoke is expected to continue as greenhouse gas emissions contribute to rising temperatures. Research indicates that wildfire smoke alone has rolled back about 25% of the progress made under the Clean Air Act, underscoring the urgent need for action to address the root causes of air pollution.
Dr. Lisa Patel, a clinical associate professor at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health, emphasizes the need for transitioning to renewable energy sources to combat air pollution effectively. The burning of fossil fuels remains a primary driver of poor air quality, highlighting the importance of investing in cleaner alternatives to protect public health.
Furthermore, concerns over small particles in the air have raised alarms among health professionals, as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and impact overall health. The increase in preterm births, asthma cases, and other health issues linked to particle pollution underscores the need for stricter regulations and cleaner energy solutions to mitigate the risks associated with poor air quality.
While ozone pollution has shown some improvement, with fewer people exposed to unhealthy levels compared to previous years, the rise of wildfire smoke presents a new challenge. The lung association’s findings indicate that western states, particularly California, are experiencing a surge in daily particle pollution, signaling a shift in air quality concerns from traditional sources to climate-related factors.
Efforts by the Environmental Protection Agency to enforce stricter standards on carbon emissions from power plants and vehicles are crucial steps in addressing air pollution. However, legal challenges and limitations on reducing greenhouse gas emissions pose obstacles to achieving cleaner air for all Americans.
As the fight against air pollution continues, the report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritize clean air policies and invest in sustainable energy solutions to protect public health and the environment. With wildfires and climate change intensifying air quality challenges, collaborative efforts at all levels are essential to ensure a healthier future for generations to come.