Air Quality Awareness Week: Understanding the State of Our Air

In honor of Air Quality Awareness Week, we wanted to share some key findings from the American Lung Association's 25th annual State of the Air report. Air Quality Awareness Week is the perfect time to revisit the environmental and health challenges that poor air quality poses to our communities.

This year's "Knowing Your Air" theme perfectly fits our mission to help everyone create safer communities. So buckle in for some eye-opening facts and actionable steps we can take to improve air quality.

This comprehensive report uses data from air quality monitoring stations across the country. It focuses on three main types of pollution in each area, which passes or fails based on the amount of these pollutants. 

• Ozone air pollution: Ozone is a powerful lung irritant that exacerbates respiratory conditions and can have both immediate and prolonged effects on health.
• Particle pollution (year-round and short-term): Particulate matter, including short-term and long-term particulates, consists of miniscule particles that can make their way into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, leading to significant health issues. Sources of particulate pollution include the combustion of fossil fuels, wood burning, and forest fires.

1. Widespread exposure to poor air quality: The report reveals a troubling statistic that 39% of Americans reside in counties that receive failing grades for air quality. This percentage represents an increase of 11 million people compared to the previous year, indicating a growing concern that needs urgent attention.
2. Disproportionate impact on communities of color: According to the report, 63% of residents in counties with failing air grades belong to Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American communities. This shocking disparity underscores the need for targeted interventions to address environmental injustices.
3. Ozone is the top contributor to breathing difficulties: Unhealthy levels of ozone impact breathing for more Americans than any other pollutant. Over 100 million people in the US live in counties that earned an "F" grade for ozone. That includes over 22 million infants and children and over 15 million people aged 65 or older.

The State of Air report provides a detailed analysis of the current air quality situation and offers guidance on how individuals and policymakers can contribute to air quality improvements. Here are some ways to make a difference:

• Advocate for stronger regulations: Supporting legislation that aims to reduce emissions from industrial sources and transportation can lead to impactful improvements in air quality.
• Participate in community initiatives: Participating in or initiating local clean-air projects, like planting trees or community clean-ups, can have a direct positive impact where you live.
• Consider your personal choices: We can help by reducing our carbon footprint. Things like opting for public transport, using energy-efficient appliances, and minimizing the use of wood stoves and fireplaces can make a difference.

Air Quality Awareness Week is a crucial time to reflect on the air we breathe and the changes we can enact to ensure a healthier environment for all. Remember, clean air isn't just an environmental achievement—it's necessary for our health and the well-being of future generations.

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