Community Action: Fighting Air Pollution In Southern California

California is home to 7 of the top 10 worst cities for air pollution, with Los Angeles (LA) being the largest. LA's air quality has been graded 'F' for poor particle and ozone pollution, with 40% of Americans living in areas with unhealthy pollution levels. The state's air pollution is caused by a combination of factors, including traffic, wildfires, heatwaves, and the burning of fossil fuels. While local and state rules have improved air quality in recent decades, reducing toxic air contaminants, there was a recent spike in pollution in 2020. The community is actively involved in tackling this issue, with initiatives like the Community Air Quality Project and the Coalition for Clean Air, which aim to improve air quality through research, education, and policy changes.

Community-based participatory research (CBPR)

In Southern California, the community has played an active role in improving air quality and reducing air pollution. This is evident in initiatives such as the Community Air Quality Project in Riverside, California, which aims to improve air quality and address the health impacts of poor air quality in the region. The project is a partnership between the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine's Center for Healthy Communities (CHC), community members, stakeholders, and community-based organisations. By bringing together diverse expertise, the project aims to develop sustainable solutions to the region's pressing air quality challenges.

CBPR principles can be applied to air pollution reduction efforts in Southern California by involving the community in all aspects of the research and decision-making process. This includes identifying the problem, research design, conducting research, interpreting results, and determining actions based on the results. For example, the community can participate in environmental audits, surveys, focus groups, and interviews to gather data and identify areas of concern.

Additionally, CBPR can empower community members to take ownership and hold researchers and policymakers accountable for addressing ethical concerns and implementing changes at all levels of the community. This can include media or educational campaigns, subsidised medical testing, and healthcare programs to address the health impacts of air pollution. By involving a range of stakeholders, CBPR can also facilitate partnerships between community organisations, academic institutions, and policymakers to advocate for policy changes that improve air quality and benefit the community.

Overall, CBPR offers a flexible and inclusive approach to addressing air pollution in Southern California by engaging the community, integrating knowledge with action, and striving for sustainable, long-term improvements in health and well-being for all community members.

The impact of diesel trucks

California has some of the nation's worst air pollution, with Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, and the San Joaquin Valley suffering the most. A major point of concern among Southern California community members is the ever-increasing number of heavy-duty diesel trucks and their impact on vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly.

Diesel trucks emit nearly one-third of smog-forming nitrogen oxides and more than one-quarter of diesel particulate matter in the state. In 2020, the state Air Resources Board approved stricter emissions standards for these trucks, which are a crucial part of the economy but also a dominant source of harmful pollution. These rules were expected to reduce smog and cancer risk to millions of Californians. However, they faced opposition from engine manufacturers and truckers, and the COVID-19 pandemic further delayed their implementation.

In 2023, the California Air Resources Board voted to ban the sale of new diesel big rigs by 2036 and require large fleets to transition to zero-emission models by 2042. This plan was approved by the EPA, allowing California to address the transportation emissions contributing to its poor air quality. Despite this, in 2025, state regulators abandoned these rules, dealing a blow to efforts to reduce air pollution.

The role of community initiatives

California is one of the most polluted states in the US, with 7 of the top 10 worst cities for air pollution. The state's geography and climate are partly to blame, as temperature inversions and natural bowl-like landforms trap air pollution and prevent circulation. However, community initiatives in Southern California are playing a vital role in combating this issue and improving air quality.

The Center for Healthy Communities (CHC) at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, has taken a proactive approach. They have convened a Community Advisory Board (CAB) comprising community members, stakeholders, and organisations with expertise in climate change. Together, they develop strategies to address the health impacts of poor air quality in the Inland Empire community. The CHC also works with high schools to raise awareness about pollution and hosts events like the Air Quality Showcase & Awards Ceremony to recognise these efforts.

Another initiative, the Community Air Quality Project, aims to improve air quality in Riverside, California, by engaging residents in the Eastside community. This project is made possible through funding from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and involves the School of Medicine and the College of Engineering. It assists community groups and faculty in understanding and creating sustainable solutions to air pollution challenges.

Community initiatives also extend beyond Riverside. The Coalition for Clean Air, for example, has set a goal of reaching 8 million electric vehicles on California roads by 2030. They also aim to educate the next generation about air quality through boot camps and inspire millions of Californians to take action for clean air during the annual California Clean Air Day.

These community initiatives are vital in addressing air pollution in Southern California. By raising awareness, developing strategies, and implementing solutions, these initiatives contribute to improving the region's air quality and the health and well-being of its residents.

Strategies to address health impacts

Improve Public Transportation and Encourage Active Transportation:

Southern California, particularly Los Angeles, is known for its heavy traffic and high number of motor vehicles. By expanding and improving public transportation systems and making them accessible to all residents, cleaner air quality can be achieved. This includes investing in electric buses, trains, and other forms of clean public transportation. Additionally, encouraging active transportation, such as walking and biking, can reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality, while also promoting a healthier lifestyle for residents.

Reduce Emissions from Diesel Trucks:

The high number of heavy-duty diesel trucks in Southern California, especially in the Inland Empire and San Joaquin Valley, has a significant impact on air quality and the health of sensitive populations, including children and the elderly. Strategies to reduce emissions from diesel trucks can include stricter regulations, such as the new South Coast AQMD regulations securing diesel emission reductions at rail yards and the San Pedro Bay ports. Encouraging the transition to electric or cleaner fuel alternatives for trucks and supporting the development of new technologies can also help reduce emissions and improve air quality.

Community Education and Engagement:

Community engagement and education are crucial in addressing the health impacts of air pollution. Initiatives such as the Air Quality Showcase & Awards Ceremony, hosted by CHC in partnership with UCR Ce-CERT and RUSD, help spread awareness about pollution and encourage community involvement in finding solutions. The Center for Healthy Communities (CHC) at the University of California, Riverside, has also established partnerships, like the Engagement Resource Collaborative (ERC), to bring together experts from various fields and community partners to develop sustainable solutions. By empowering communities and providing them with the knowledge and resources to take action, Southern California can make significant strides in improving air quality and reducing health risks.

Climate Action and Adaptation:

As Southern California is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including heatwaves, wildfires, and rising sea levels, climate action is essential. This includes supporting policies and initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Additionally, adapting to the changing climate by implementing heat wave early warning systems, improving wildfire response and management strategies, and protecting vulnerable communities from sea-level rise can help reduce health risks associated with climate-related air pollution.

Reduce Nitrogen Oxides and Fine Particulate Matter:

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are key contributors to air pollution and have significant health impacts. Local and state rules that target the reduction of these toxic air contaminants have proven effective in improving air quality. Between 1994 and 2011, average NO2 levels in Southern California decreased by 28% to 53%, and PM2.5 levels decreased by 13% to 54%. Continuing to implement and enforce regulations that reduce NOx and PM2.5 emissions, such as stricter vehicle emissions standards and industrial pollution controls, will have direct health benefits for Southern California residents.

Reducing exposure to contaminants

Southern California has long been known for its poor air quality, with the state having 7 of the top 10 worst cities for air pollution in the US. The state's geography and climate are partly to blame, as the bowl-like shape of its cities traps air pollution, preventing circulation and dispersion. However, communities in Southern California are actively working to improve air quality and reduce exposure to contaminants.

One example is the Center for Healthy Communities (CHC) in Riverside, which has partnered with local high schools and community organizations to address the health impacts of poor air quality. They have also received funding from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to implement a community-based participatory research project aimed at improving air quality in the region. This project will bring together experts from the School of Medicine and the College of Engineering to develop sustainable solutions.

Another initiative is the Coalition for Clean Air, which aims to educate the next generation about air quality through boot camps and inspire millions of Californians to take action for clean air during the annual California Clean Air Day. They also support new regulations for reducing diesel emissions at rail yards and ports, ushering in a cleaner future for the freight industry.

To reduce exposure to contaminants, Southern California communities can take several direct actions. These include:

• Encouraging active transportation, such as walking and biking, to reduce vehicle emissions.
• Promoting the use of electric vehicles and public transportation to decrease gasoline and diesel emissions.
• Implementing strategies to reduce emissions from heavy-duty diesel trucks, which have a significant impact on sensitive populations.
• Educating residents about the impacts of air pollution and providing solutions, such as carpooling, telecommuting, and reducing the number of trips made by vehicle.
• Encouraging the use of energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, as well as renewable energy sources like solar power.
• Promoting recycling and the use of environmentally friendly products, such as water-based cleaning products and organic foods.

Frequently asked questions