Dallas Pollution: A City's Battle With Poor Air Quality

Dallas, Texas, has been the subject of some concern when it comes to air pollution. While the city's air pollution levels have improved over the last two decades, there have been fluctuations. Notably, 2019 saw heightened levels of PM2.5 and ozone pollution, with Dallas experiencing more days of unhealthy ozone pollution than the national standard. In 2018, Dallas-Fort Worth was ranked 16th in the American Lung Association's list of the 25 most ozone-polluted cities. The city has also seen increases in pediatric and adult asthma hospitalizations, particularly in the southern and western areas. However, in 2020, Dallas showed improvement, with six months of the year falling within the World Health Organization's target rating of 10 μg/m³ or less for optimal air quality. Overall, while Dallas has faced challenges with air pollution, there are indications that efforts to improve air quality may be yielding some positive results.

Dallas's air pollution levels have improved over the last two decades

In 2020, Dallas's yearly average PM2.5 reading was 9.6 μg/m³, which met the World Health Organization's (WHO) target goal of 10 μg/m³ or less for optimal air quality. This was an improvement from the previous year's reading of 12.3 μg/m³, which was rated as "moderate". This improvement is likely due to the reduced movement of people and vehicles during the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, ozone levels in Dallas have been a persistent issue. Since 2015, the number of "unhealthy" ozone days has increased, and Dallas has never met ozone standards since they were established two decades ago. This is attributed to increased vehicular emissions, poorly regulated industries, and the area's high temperatures and stagnant air.

Another notable pollution event occurred in June 2020 when a sandstorm carried dust from the Saharan Desert to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, resulting in "unhealthy" air quality ratings.

Overall, while Dallas has made improvements in reducing air pollution, there are still challenges, particularly with ozone levels and occasional extreme pollution events. The citizens of Dallas have experienced periods of cleaner air quality, but it is uncertain if this trend will continue as full activity resumes.

Ozone levels have been rising since 2015

Dallas has experienced improvements in its air pollution levels over the last two decades. However, this trend has not been consistent, with some years witnessing a reversal in progress. Notably, 2019 stood out as an off-trend year, with heightened levels of PM2.5 and ozone pollution.

Ozone levels, in particular, have been on a concerning trajectory since 2015, marking a break from the long-term trend of improvement. The number of days with 'unhealthy' ozone levels has steadily increased. From 2014 to 2016, there was an average of 5.3 unhealthy days, which rose to 6.7 days from 2015 to 2017, and further increased to 8.2 days from 2016 to 2018. This trend is influenced by a combination of factors, including increased vehicular emissions, poorly regulated industries, and the region's high temperatures and stagnant air.

Ozone (O3) is a significant and dangerous air pollutant in Dallas. The 2019 State of the Air report gave Dallas an "F" rating for ozone pollution due to the number of days that exceeded ozone standards. From 2016 to 2018, there were 8.2 days deemed unhealthy for ozone pollution, more than double the 3.2-day national standard. Dallas has never met the ozone standards in the two decades since they were established.

The US EPA has been tightening ozone standards over the years, lowering the threshold from 75 ppb to 70 ppb to better protect at-risk communities. Health experts are advocating for even stricter thresholds. The EPA's revisions to the eight-hour ozone standards in 2015 and the subsequent reclassifications of nonattainment areas in 2018 and 2024 reflect these efforts.

While Dallas's air quality is generally moderate, sensitive groups may experience symptoms with prolonged exposure. It is advised that individuals reduce their time spent outside if they experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation.

Vehicular emissions and industrial activity contribute to pollution

Dallas's air pollution levels have improved over the last two decades, although this trend has not been consistent. For instance, 2019 saw heightened levels of PM2.5 and ozone pollution, with the number of ""unhealthy" ozone days increasing from 5.3 days from 2014 to 2016 to 8.2 days from 2016 to 2018.

Vehicular emissions and industrial activity are significant contributors to pollution in Dallas. Transportation emissions account for an estimated 74.8% of total emissions in the city. While Dallas has promoted carpooling, built more bike lanes, and upgraded its fleet of vehicles, more can be done to encourage the use of energy-efficient, low-emission vehicles. For example, the city could introduce electric car rebates and increase the number of electric vehicle charging stations.

The city's industrial facilities have also been responsible for emitting illegal, unauthorised air pollution. A report by the Environment Texas Research and Policy Center found that industrial facilities in North Texas emitted 78,737 pounds of illegal air pollution in 2018, a 27% increase from the previous year. While laws carry severe penalties for over-polluters, they are rarely enforced, and industries often get away with paying only a fraction of the penalties they should.

To address vehicular emissions, Texas implemented enhanced vehicle emissions inspections in affected areas, including Dallas, in 2002. The state also transitioned to a "Two Steps, One Sticker" vehicle inspection and registration program in 2015, requiring vehicles to pass an annual emissions inspection before registration. However, these efforts have not been sufficient to meet the safety levels set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Overall, while Dallas has made some progress in reducing pollution, it continues to fall short of EPA goals, and more needs to be done to address vehicular emissions and industrial activity, the major contributors to the city's air pollution.

Dallas ranked 2780th out of all cities ranked worldwide in 2020

Dallas, Texas, ranked 2780th out of all cities ranked worldwide in 2020 in terms of air pollution. The city's yearly average PM2.5 reading was 9.6 μg/m³, which was just within the World Health Organization's target goal of 10 μg/m³ or less for optimal air quality. This reading placed Dallas in the "moderate" bracket for air pollution, indicating that while the air quality is generally acceptable, sensitive groups may experience symptoms from long-term exposure.

Dallas's ranking of 2780th out of all cities worldwide in 2020 represented an improvement from the previous year, where it had a higher PM2.5 reading of 12.3 μg/m³. This improvement can be attributed to a decrease in pollution levels, as the city has made efforts to reduce emissions and improve air quality. Overall, Dallas's air pollution levels have shown a positive trend over the last two decades, with the number of "unhealthy" ozone days decreasing and the city making strides towards meeting ozone standards.

However, it is important to note that Dallas still faces challenges in terms of air pollution. The city is frequently reported to experience higher pollution levels near the outskirts, where industrial activities are primarily located. Additionally, ozone (O3) remains a prevalent and dangerous air pollutant in the area. Dallas received an “F” rating for ozone pollution in the 2019 State of Air report, as the number of days exceeding ozone standards was more than double the national standard.

Despite these challenges, Dallas has made significant progress in improving its air quality and reducing pollution levels. The city's rebound in air quality rankings in 2020 demonstrates its commitment to creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for its residents. Dallas continues to work towards addressing pollution sources and implementing measures to ensure that its citizens can enjoy cleaner air and improved overall well-being.

In addition to its efforts to improve air quality, Dallas has also received recognition for its livability and cultural attractions. In the Resonance Consultancy's "World's Best Cities" report for 2025, Dallas climbed up the rankings, showcasing its desirability as a place to live, work, or visit. The city's booming population, thriving corporate economy, and diverse culture have contributed to its improved standing among the top cities worldwide.

Vulnerable populations are at higher risk due to poor air quality

Dallas's air pollution levels have improved over the last two decades, although this trend has not been consistent. In 2019, the city experienced heightened levels of PM2.5 and ozone pollution, with the number of "unhealthy" ozone days increasing. The city's outskirts, where industries are primarily located, tend to have higher pollution levels.

Vulnerable populations are at higher risk of adverse health effects due to poor air quality. Socioeconomic factors play a significant role in this disparity. People with lower incomes, especially in low- and middle-income countries, are more vulnerable to air pollution due to their higher exposure to pollutants and the prevalence of health conditions exacerbated by pollution, such as asthma. Additionally, people of colour, including African Americans, Mexican Americans, and non-Hispanic blacks, are among the groups most at risk from air pollutants. This is often a result of residential segregation, with these communities located closer to major sources of pollution.

Furthermore, certain demographic groups are more susceptible to the harmful effects of air pollution. Children, older adults, and people with pre-existing health conditions, such as lung diseases like asthma and COPD, are more vulnerable. The elderly, in particular, may experience greater health impacts within poorer households due to their increased exposure to household air pollution.

Health disparities are also evident across racial and ethnic groups. Studies have found that African Americans and non-Hispanic blacks are at a higher risk of premature death from fine particle pollution. Additionally, communities with higher African American populations tend to have higher rates of asthma attacks and increased mortality rates.

It is important to note that vulnerable populations may experience immediate health effects from poor air quality. They should be particularly cautious by monitoring air quality forecasts and limiting outdoor activities when pollution levels are high.

Frequently asked questions