Chicago's Pollution: Strategies For Cleaner Air And Water

Chicago, the third most populous city in the United States, has a long history of unhealthy air pollution. In 2023, it was ranked the second-worst for air pollution among major US cities, with an average annual concentration of dangerous fine particulate matter almost three times the global guidelines. While transport emissions are a significant contributor to Chicago's air pollution, the city also faces issues with temperature inversions, which trap cool surface-level air and prevent the dispersal of pollutants. To address these issues, Chicago has implemented various initiatives, such as promoting alternative fuels and electric vehicles, and enforcing regulations on diesel vehicles.

Reduce vehicle emissions

Motor vehicle exhaust emissions are a significant source of pollution in Chicago, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. These pollutants are harmful to human health and the environment and contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone (smog). To reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality, several strategies can be implemented:

Electric Vehicles and Alternative Fuels

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) is working on a framework to improve Electric Vehicle (EV) and e-mobility infrastructure. This includes creating greater accessibility to EVs, streamlining the regulatory process for deploying public charging infrastructure, and piloting curbside charging. Additionally, the city promotes the use of alternative fuels such as compressed natural gas, E85, propane, and biodiesel as cleaner alternatives to traditional gasoline.

Vehicle Emissions Testing and Inspection

The Illinois EPA conducts vehicle emissions testing and inspection programs to identify malfunctioning emission control systems that exceed federal emission standards. Repairs are required for these vehicles, which helps to reduce air pollution and improve vehicle performance and fuel economy. Most 1996 and newer gasoline-powered passenger vehicles are subject to emissions inspections after they are four years old.

Diesel Retrofit Program and Idling Reduction

Chicago has implemented a Diesel Retrofit Program with new clean diesel requirements. Additionally, the city has limited diesel trucks to a maximum of three minutes of idling within a sixty-minute period to reduce emissions from idling vehicles.

Biking and Active Transportation

Chicago is working to increase the accessibility and attractiveness of biking by maintaining on-street bike lanes. This encourages commuters to choose biking as a mode of transportation, reducing the number of vehicles on the road and their associated emissions.

Public Transportation

In addition to biking, Chicago is also focusing on improving public transportation options, such as walking, biking, and taking transit. This can help reduce the number of private vehicles on the road and lower overall vehicle emissions.

Reduce industrial emissions

Chicago's Climate Action Plan (CAP) outlines several strategies to reduce industrial emissions and improve air quality. Here are some measures that can be implemented to reduce industrial emissions in Chicago:

Retrofit Industrial Buildings

Industrial buildings accounted for 16.6% of Chicago's emissions in 2017. One strategy is to retrofit 20% of total industrial buildings by 2030 with energy-efficient technology and renewable energy sources. This will help reduce the carbon footprint of the industrial sector and lower overall emissions.

Promote Renewable Energy Sources

Chicago should continue to diversify its energy portfolio and promote the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and nuclear power. By increasing the generation of low- and zero-emissions energy, Chicago can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and decrease industrial emissions.

Implement Emissions Reduction Technologies

Industrial facilities should be encouraged to adopt innovative emissions reduction technologies. This includes investing in best available technology, such as advanced air pollution control equipment, to minimize the release of pollutants. Additionally, the City of Chicago can provide incentives and support for industries transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

Improve Waste Management

Waste management and diversion are crucial to reducing industrial emissions. Chicago's Climate Action Plan aims to divert 90% of commercial, industrial, and institutional waste by 2030. By improving waste management practices and promoting recycling, the city can reduce landfill emissions and the environmental impact of industrial waste.

Encourage Energy Efficiency

Industrial facilities can improve their energy efficiency by implementing energy-saving measures. This includes optimizing energy usage, investing in energy-efficient equipment, and adopting sustainable practices. By reducing energy consumption, industries can lower their carbon footprint and contribute to emissions reduction.

Foster Collaboration

Reducing industrial emissions requires collaboration between various stakeholders. The City of Chicago should engage with businesses, community organizations, and environmental groups to develop and implement effective strategies. By working together, they can identify sector-specific targets and create tailored action plans for different industries.

By implementing these measures, Chicago can significantly reduce industrial emissions and improve the city's air quality. It is important to regularly monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies to ensure progress towards the city's climate goals.

Reduce emissions from coal plants

Chicago's air pollution has been a persistent issue since the city's industrialization in the late nineteenth century, when it relied heavily on coal for various purposes. While significant progress has been made over the years, with air pollution levels now being a fraction of historical levels, there is still work to be done to reduce emissions from coal plants in the region. Here are some measures that can be taken to achieve this:

Transition to Refined Coal

Refined coal is produced by mixing chemical and other additives with conventional coal, which helps to reduce pollution when burned. Producers of refined coal can claim tax credits as an incentive, and this transition can help reduce emissions from coal plants. However, the testing methods used by producers have limited the government's understanding of actual emissions reductions, and a coordinated review of the program by involved agencies is recommended to determine if changes are needed.

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Technologies

CCS technology captures carbon dioxide at its source, such as coal-fired power plants, and stores it permanently underground. While implementing CCS technologies at coal-fired power plants has proven challenging due to economic viability, the Department of Energy (DOE) has invested significant amounts in several projects to demonstrate its use. Continued development and implementation of CCS technologies can play a crucial role in reducing emissions from coal plants in Chicago and beyond.

Scrubbers and Flue Gas Desulfurization

Electric power plants can utilize scrubbers, or flue gas desulfurization equipment, to reduce sulfur emissions from their smokestacks. Additionally, electrostatic precipitators or baghouses can remove particulates and heavy metals from the smoke. These technologies are important tools in reducing emissions from coal plants and improving air quality.

Phase-out of Coal Plants

Illinois has recognized the harmful effects of coal-burning power plants and has taken steps toward a phase-out. By 2030, most coal-burning power plants in the state will be shut down, with exceptions for a couple of municipally-owned plants. This transition to cleaner energy sources, such as wind, solar, and nuclear power, will significantly reduce emissions from coal plants and improve Chicago's air quality.

Increased Monitoring and Data Collection

Expanding the air quality monitoring network and utilizing low-cost sensors can provide more comprehensive data on pollution levels. This information is crucial for communities to advocate for change and inform policy decisions. Chicago officials recognize the need for more real-time, hyperlocal data to guide their decisions and are working towards increasing the number of air monitors as part of their climate action plan.

Improve air quality monitoring

Improving air quality monitoring is a crucial step in reducing pollution in Chicago. Here are some measures that can be taken to achieve this:

Increase the Number of Air Quality Monitors

Chicago officials should prioritise increasing the number of air quality monitors across the city, especially in areas with high industrial activity and vulnerable communities. By collecting more data from various locations, a more comprehensive understanding of the air quality in Chicago can be achieved. This will help identify specific areas with poor air quality and allow for more informed decision-making and targeted solutions.

Encourage Community Participation in Monitoring

Community engagement and participation in air quality monitoring can help fill in the gaps where government instruments may be lacking. Initiatives such as providing low-cost sensors to citizens, community groups, schools, and other organisations can empower individuals to take an active role in monitoring their local air quality. This not only increases public awareness and interest in air quality issues but also provides valuable data that can drive advocacy and policy changes.

Utilise Advanced Technology for Monitoring

Advanced technologies, such as AI-assisted cameras, can play a crucial role in early wildfire detection and response, which is essential for reducing air pollution. Additionally, hand-held AirBeam monitors, as used by Air Quality Chicago, can provide hyperlocal data at the neighbourhood scale. This level of detail can help identify specific areas of concern and guide targeted actions to improve air quality.

Enhance Data Analysis Techniques

Improving data analysis techniques can lead to more accurate assessments of air quality. For example, using geographic information system (GIS) analysis, it is possible to map out vulnerable communities and industrial sites, revealing the correlation between high Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) areas and the concentration of polluting industries. This information can then inform policy changes and the allocation of additional air quality monitors.

Collaborate with Surrounding Suburbs

Air pollution does not respect geographical boundaries, and it is important to recognise that surrounding suburbs may also be impacted by Chicago's air quality issues. By collaborating with neighbouring areas and sharing data, a more comprehensive understanding of the region's air quality can be achieved. This can lead to coordinated efforts and policies to improve the air quality for all residents in the Chicago metropolitan area.

Encourage active travel

To encourage active travel in Chicago, the government can implement several strategies and policies that promote walking and cycling as means of transportation. Here are some ways to encourage active travel:

Provide Infrastructure for Walking and Cycling:

The core of promoting active travel lies in providing convenient, safe, and well-connected infrastructure for walking and cycling. This includes dedicated paths, lanes, and routes that offer a seamless and efficient experience for pedestrians and cyclists.

Implement Comprehensive Policy Packages:

While individual policies can have an impact, research suggests that implementing comprehensive packages of policies may yield better results. This means combining multiple strategies, such as infrastructure improvements with educational campaigns and incentives, to encourage a shift towards active travel.

Create Laws and Regulations:

The government can play a crucial role by enacting laws and regulations that support active travel. This includes providing funding for after-school sports programs and encouraging employers to offer time and space for employees to engage in physical activity during the workday.

Offer Incentives:

Incentives such as tax breaks for joining gyms or participating in physical activity programs can motivate people to adopt active travel. Additionally, offering subsidies or discounts for purchasing active travel equipment, like bicycles, can further encourage people to choose walking or cycling over driving.

Invest in Public Parks and Recreation Facilities:

By investing in public parks and recreation facilities, the government can provide safe and accessible spaces for physical activity. These spaces can also be utilized for community events and programs that promote health and wellness, such as walking groups or sports classes.

Raise Awareness:

Educational campaigns and public service announcements can play a vital role in raising awareness about the importance of physical activity. Informing the public about the benefits of active travel can help encourage more people to choose walking or cycling as a means of transportation.

By implementing these strategies, Chicago can promote active travel, improve the health and well-being of its residents, and contribute to reducing pollution levels in the city.

Frequently asked questions