Air Pollution's Impact: Governing Challenges And Policy Changes

Air pollution is a pressing issue that affects governments at all levels, from local to federal. While the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) takes the lead in combating air pollution, it works in collaboration with state, local, and tribal governments, as well as other federal agencies and stakeholders. Air pollution knows no boundaries, flowing freely across continents and oceans, and thus requires a unified effort from all levels of government to address it effectively.

The Clean Air Act, first authorized in 1963 and enacted in 1970, empowers the federal government and states to regulate emissions from stationary and mobile sources. This act has proven that economic growth and protecting public health can go hand in hand, with the US economy growing by 246% from 1970 to 2015 while aggregate national emissions of common pollutants dropped by 70% during the same period.

However, air pollution continues to be a significant problem, impacting the environment and public health. It is a major environmental risk, causing respiratory and other diseases, and contributing to morbidity and mortality. Local governments play a crucial role in this fight, as their decisions often have the most direct impact on their constituents' lives and health. They can influence land use policies, create city-specific codes and action plans, and leverage air quality data to guide transportation and city planning to protect residents from exposure to air pollution.

The Clean Air Act

One of the key goals of the Clean Air Act is to set and achieve NAAQS in every state. To achieve this, the Act directed states to develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs), which consist of emission reduction strategies. The deadline for achieving the NAAQS was initially set for 1975, but it has been amended multiple times due to many areas failing to meet the deadlines.

The 1990 amendments to the Clean Air Act were particularly significant as they aimed to address four major threats to the environment and public health: acid rain, urban air pollution, toxic air emissions, and stratospheric ozone depletion. These amendments also established a national operating permits program and strengthened enforcement to ensure better compliance with the Act.

Since its implementation, the Clean Air Act has achieved dramatic reductions in air pollution, preventing hundreds of thousands of cases of serious health effects each year. Despite this progress, air pollution in the United States continues to harm people's health and the environment, and the EPA continues to work with various stakeholders to address this issue.

City planning

Land Use Policies: Implementing strategic land use policies, such as zoning regulations and creating buffer zones for sensitive receptors, can effectively limit community exposure to air pollution. For instance, the City of Los Angeles previously had minimal restrictions on housing construction near freeways, but recent city ordinances now mandate increased pollution mitigation measures and prohibit the placement of schools in close proximity to freeways.

Permitting and Environmental Impact Reports (EIR): Local governments play a pivotal role in approving permits for large projects like expanding railyards or building freight hubs. Prior to granting such permits, they often conduct Environmental Impact Reports (EIR) to evaluate the project's potential environmental impact and devise necessary mitigation strategies. This ensures that economic development is pursued sustainably.

City-Specific Codes and Action Plans: Local governments can take the initiative to create and enforce local policies that promote clean air. For example, the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles have maintained the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan, which outlines emission reduction goals and strategies. Similarly, the City of Long Beach is working on a Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

Appointments to Agency Boards: Local elected officials can influence regional and statewide policies by serving on agency boards. For instance, they can be part of the South Coast Air Quality Management District Board (SCAQMD) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in California. Additionally, Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), which are responsible for regional transportation planning, are composed entirely of local government representatives.

Incorporating Green Spaces: Integrating green spaces and urban forests into city planning is essential for improving air quality. Trees and plants act as natural air filters, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. This approach not only enhances air quality but also provides recreational and social spaces for residents, promoting physical activity and mental well-being.

Smart Urban Planning for Sustainable Cities: To create sustainable cities, urban planning must prioritize the movement of people over cars. This involves improving public transport systems, promoting active travel like walking and cycling, and designing walkable streets and green spaces. Such measures not only reduce air pollution but also foster physical fitness, social cohesion, and a healthier urban environment.

Air quality monitoring

Data Collection and Analysis

Systematic data collection and analysis are essential for effective air quality monitoring. Governments can employ advanced technologies, such as air quality sensors and satellite imagery, to gather real-time data on air pollution levels. This information can then be analysed to identify pollution sources, track emission trends, and assess the effectiveness of implemented policies.

Collaboration and Partnerships

Collaboration between different levels of government is vital for comprehensive air quality monitoring. For instance, in the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) works closely with state, local, and tribal governments to address air pollution under the Clean Air Act. This collaboration ensures a unified approach to data collection, standard-setting, and policy implementation.

Policy Development and Implementation

Public Awareness and Education

Disseminating air quality information to the public is a crucial aspect of air quality monitoring. Governments can develop user-friendly platforms, such as websites or mobile applications, to provide real-time air quality data to citizens. Additionally, public education campaigns can raise awareness about the health risks associated with air pollution, encouraging individuals to make informed decisions and adopt sustainable practices.

International Cooperation

Air pollution transcends national boundaries, and international cooperation is essential for effective air quality monitoring. Governments can collaborate with international organisations and enter into agreements to address transboundary air pollution. By sharing data, technologies, and best practices, countries can collectively tackle air pollution and develop sustainable solutions.

Continuous Improvement

Air filtration systems

Air pollution is a complex mixture of chemical, physical, and biological agents that modify the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. It can be caused by both indoor and outdoor sources, such as household combustion devices, motor vehicles, industrial facilities, and forest fires. The pollutants of major public health concern include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide.

To combat this issue, air filtration systems can be used to reduce indoor air pollution. These systems typically use multilayer filters composed of a pre-filter, a carbon filter, an antibacterial filter, and a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter. HEPA filters are particularly effective, as they can remove 99.97% of particles greater than or equal to 0.3 micrometres in diameter. This includes dust, pollen, and allergens.

The use of air filtration systems can provide several benefits. Firstly, they can reduce the symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studies have shown that the use of air filters can lead to a significant reduction in nocturnal symptoms such as a stuffy nose and improved bronchial hyper-responsiveness. Secondly, air filtration systems can also positively impact vascular health. Exposure to particulate matter is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events due to oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, leading to endothelial dysfunction. By reducing indoor particle concentrations, air filtration systems can improve microvascular function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

In addition to the health benefits, air filtration systems can also improve the energy efficiency of buildings. For example, the Eco mode feature on some air purifiers automatically switches the purifier on when it detects air pollution and off when the air quality is good, resulting in energy savings.

Overall, air filtration systems play a crucial role in improving indoor air quality and reducing the health risks associated with air pollution. They can help reduce symptoms and prevent the progression of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. However, it is important to note that air filtration systems should be used in conjunction with other measures, such as source control and ventilation, to effectively improve indoor air quality.

Transportation planning

Transportation is a key element of a country's economy and society, bringing people and goods together. However, it is also a significant contributor to air pollution, especially with the rise in personal vehicle usage. This has adverse health and environmental impacts, affecting millions of people, especially those who live near busy roads.

To combat this, governments have implemented various measures with positive outcomes. For instance, the Clean Air Act in the US has led to the EPA setting stringent emissions standards for vehicles, fuels, and engines, resulting in significant reductions in pollution and improved air quality. Similarly, Canada has adopted the world's most stringent national standards for air pollutant emissions from new cars and light trucks, with projected health and environmental benefits worth over $7.5 billion by 2030.

Initiatives to reduce emissions from transportation can have a significant positive impact on air quality, acid rain, smog, and climate change. Governments can achieve this through various means, including developing regulations for vehicles and engines, promoting sustainable transportation options, and ensuring efficient modes of transportation. For example, public transportation use is one of the most effective ways for individuals to conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By switching from a solo commute by car to public transportation, a person can significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

Furthermore, governments can invest in clean vehicle technology and engine technology. For instance, the US EPA's Diesel Emissions Reduction Act program offers funding to projects that aim to protect human health and improve air quality by reducing harmful emissions from diesel engines. This has resulted in the retrofitting or replacement of over 73,000 engines, with projected health benefits worth $8 billion over the lifetime of the affected engines.

Overall, transportation planning plays a crucial role in reducing air pollution and its impacts on public health and the environment. By implementing regulations, promoting sustainable options, and investing in clean technologies, governments can make significant strides in improving air quality and mitigating the adverse effects of transportation on society.

Frequently asked questions