United States grapples with severe air pollution, evidently going unnoticed by many
New York City, a global metropolis, finds itself in the unenviable position of being the seventh most polluted major city in the world. This is according to recent data, with the air quality often exceeding the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended average annual limit for PM2.5 particles.
The city's air quality has been affected by various factors, including wildfire smoke from Canada, factory fumes, and exhaust. Moreover, extreme heat and wildfires have contributed to dirtier air, making the situation even more challenging.
The Trump administration, during its tenure, overseen a rollback of environmental regulations, which some argue has exacerbated the issue. The federal government has also cut funding for agencies that collect data on the breathability of America's air, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
This lack of data extends to indoor air quality, a concern highlighted by Mr Roque. He mentioned that while the data for outdoor air pollution is limited, there is even less on indoor air quality.
The situation is particularly concerning for America's Black and Hispanic populations, who are disproportionately affected by poor air quality, according to studies. This is echoed in places like 'Cancer Alley', an 85-mile stretch along the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge in Louisiana, where the local, majority-Black population faces a cancer risk several times greater than the national average.
The US State Department has suspended air data collection at US embassies and consulates around the world, citing "budget constraints". This data suspension further complicates efforts to understand and address air quality issues.
In a positive note, Mr Barrett stated that the federal Clean Air Act and policies implemented at the local, state, and federal levels have led to significant improvements in air quality over time. However, the recent trends suggest that days with high PM2.5 levels are becoming more frequent.
The American Lung Association reported that 46% of Americans are exposed to unhealthy air levels. To combat this, initiatives like the environmental justice programmes, which were aimed at addressing the disproportionate health impacts of air pollution on minority and low-income communities, have been affected by funding cuts.
The EPA proposed the repeal of the "endangerment finding" - an Environmental Protection Agency standard used to set regulations of greenhouse gas emissions. This proposal, if implemented, could further impact air quality and public health.
Despite these challenges, efforts to improve air quality continue. For instance, the government agency tasked with funding environmental justice programmes was shuttered by the administration, but local communities and advocacy groups continue to push for change.
In conclusion, while New York City faces significant air quality challenges, it is crucial to continue efforts to collect and analyse data, implement policies to reduce pollution, and advocate for the health and well-being of all communities.
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