Jersey's Air Pollution: A Growing Concern?

Air pollution in New Jersey has been a cause for concern, with reports suggesting that it could be dangerous to breathe and harmful to health. The state's air quality has been ranked among the worst in the nation, with high levels of smog and ozone, which can trigger asthma attacks in residents with respiratory issues. While there have been efforts to improve air quality, such as the shutdown of coal-burning power plants and the retirement of older diesel engines, the impact of global warming and policy changes that weaken clean air standards pose ongoing challenges. Real-time air pollution maps and indices provide valuable tools for monitoring air quality and taking necessary precautions.

Sources of air pollution in New Jersey

Air pollution in New Jersey is a pressing issue, with the state having some of the worst air quality in the nation. The American Lung Association's report on air pollution found that the Newark-New York City metropolitan area, encompassing 13 New Jersey counties, ranked 13th for the most ozone-polluted city in the US. The Camden metropolitan area, including Philadelphia, Reading, and seven New Jersey counties, was also identified as the 35th most polluted metro area. Notably, North Jersey and New York City ranked 10th for the highest ozone levels, which can be detrimental to individuals with asthma and other respiratory conditions.

Ground-level ozone, formed through the interaction of pollutants, light, and heat, poses a significant health risk and contributes to environmental degradation. The presence of ground-level ozone, distinct from the protective ozone layer in the atmosphere, is heightened during warm weather and sunshine, leading to elevated levels in the summer and mid-afternoon. This ozone pollution is largely driven by vehicle emissions, with transportation hot zones like the I-95 corridor experiencing high-level ozone concentrations.

Particulate matter, or PM, is another critical concern in New Jersey's air pollution. PM2.5, with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres, can infiltrate the lungs and cause severe health issues. These particles are introduced into the air by trucks, cars, buses, and industrial emissions. The size of these particles is crucial, as smaller diameters facilitate their entry into the lungs and subsequent impact on the heart and respiratory system.

The state has taken steps to address air pollution, and there are indications of progress. The retirement or retrofitting of older diesel engines on trucks and the closure of coal-fired power plants have contributed to a decline in soot levels. Additionally, New Jersey has adopted a rule mandating that all new cars sold from 2035 onwards must be electric, signalling a shift towards cleaner energy. The Murphy administration has set a goal of achieving a 100% clean-energy economy by 2035, demonstrating a commitment to improving air quality.

Air pollution control strategies

Air pollution in New Jersey is considered to be so bad that it could be dangerous to human health. The state's air quality continues to be among the most polluted in the US, with a large area of the state receiving failing grades for smog, according to a report by the American Lung Association.

Environmental Factors

• Consider ambient air quality, meteorological conditions, the location of the emissions source, noise levels, and any ancillary pollution from the control system itself.
• Understand the relevant meteorological conditions, such as wind patterns and precipitation, that can impact the dispersion and dilution of pollutants.

Engineering Factors

• Evaluate pollutant characteristics, including abrasiveness, reactivity, and toxicity.
• Assess gas stream characteristics and the performance characteristics of the control system.
• Ensure access to adequate utilities, such as water for wet scrubbers.

Economic Factors

• Evaluate the capital cost, operating costs, equipment maintenance, equipment lifetime, and administrative, legal, and enforcement costs.
• Implement economic incentives, such as emissions trading, banking, and emissions caps, to encourage the reduction of emissions.

Control Measures and Strategies

• Develop a comprehensive control strategy and plan with implementation dates and clearly defined goals.
• Involve the public and invite input from the regulated community, businesses, and the general public to streamline implementation and ensure buy-in.
• Implement compliance and enforcement programs to ensure that owners or operators of emission sources understand the requirements and consequences of non-compliance.
• Focus on obvious sources of air pollution, such as vehicles, construction equipment, and industrial facilities, and prioritize the quickest means of controlling emissions.
• Reduce emissions from vehicles by encouraging the use of public transportation, biking, or walking.
• Implement emission controls on vehicles and promote the use of cleaner fuels.
• Phase out or retrofit older diesel engines, as they are a significant source of soot and other pollutants.
• Continue the transition from coal-fired power plants to natural gas, which produces fewer emissions.
• Plant and care for trees, as they filter pollutants, absorb carbon dioxide, and release oxygen into the atmosphere.
• Encourage the use of electric or hand-powered lawn equipment instead of gas-powered engines, which often lack pollution control devices.
• Promote energy efficiency by encouraging the use of energy-efficient appliances and heating systems, and raising awareness about turning off electrical devices when not in use.

Health effects of air pollution

Air pollution in New Jersey has been described as so bad that it could be dangerous to health. In 2018, it was reported that New Jersey's air was among the most polluted in the nation, with a large part of the state receiving failing grades for smog. North Jersey and New York City ranked as the 10th worst metropolitan area in the U.S. for ozone levels, which can trigger asthma attacks in the estimated 735,000 state residents with the disease.

Air pollution can have a range of health effects, from coughing and shortness of breath to exacerbating chronic conditions such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis. It has also been linked to higher rates of heart attacks, strokes, and low birth weight. The size of the particulate matter (PM) in the air is directly linked to its ability to harm human health; the smaller the particle, the more easily it can pass through the nose and throat and enter the lungs. Once inhaled, PM can affect the heart and lungs, leading to serious health consequences.

Ground-level ozone, created by reactions between environmental pollutants, is of particular concern. Global warming exacerbates ozone levels, increasing the number of days that those with asthma may be unable to go outside due to the risk of an attack. In addition to ozone, PM2.5 is another air pollutant of concern. PM2.5 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers, which is extremely small and can thus more easily enter the lungs and cause harm.

While New Jersey's air quality has historically been poor, there is some good news. Soot in the state's air is declining thanks to older diesel engines on trucks being retired or retrofitted, and the continued closing of coal-fired power plants. State and federal government efforts have also been introduced to improve air quality, including buying back old high-emission vehicles, imposing new restrictions on diesel truck emissions, and retrofitting diesel-burning school buses, garbage trucks, and construction equipment. As of April 28, 2025, New Jersey's Air Quality Index (AQI) level was 19, which is considered good, indicating that air pollution poses little or no risk to health.

Real-time air quality monitoring

Various organisations offer real-time air quality data for New Jersey. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) manages air quality and provides air quality data from the state's monitoring sites on nj.gov/dep/airmon. The NJDEP employs various strategies to maintain air quality, including ambient air monitoring, emission reduction plans, and vehicle testing.

Additionally, websites like IQAir and AQI.in provide real-time air quality indices and maps for New Jersey. These sources allow users to track air pollution levels in specific cities and regions within the state. For instance, as of April 28, 2025, the AQI level in New Jersey was reported as 19, indicating good air quality.

Overall, real-time air quality monitoring in New Jersey is facilitated by government initiatives and citizen-driven efforts. This combination of official data and community engagement helps residents stay informed about air pollution levels and take appropriate actions to protect their health and the environment.

Actions to reduce exposure to air pollution

Air pollution in New Jersey has been described as so bad that it could be dangerous to breathe. The state's air has been ranked among the most polluted in the nation, with high levels of smog and ozone that can trigger asthma attacks in residents with the condition.

While collective action is needed to address this issue, there are actions individuals can take to reduce their exposure to air pollution and protect their health:

• Stay indoors on high-pollution days: When air pollution levels are high, staying indoors can help to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants. This is especially important for individuals with chronic cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, children, and the elderly, who are more susceptible to the health risks of air pollution.
• Reduce outdoor air infiltration: Keeping windows and doors closed and using air conditioning can help to reduce the amount of outdoor air coming into your home. Setting air conditioners no lower than 78 degrees can also help conserve electricity and reduce pollution.
• Use air filters: Cleaning indoor air with air filters can help to remove pollutants and improve the air quality inside your home.
• Limit physical exertion: Reducing physical activity, especially outdoors or near pollution sources, can lower your exposure to pollutants and reduce the risk of adverse health effects.
• Use a respirator: While limited evidence supports this, wearing a respirator or face mask may be effective in certain situations to reduce exposure to air pollutants.
• Use public transportation, walk, or ride a bike: Opting for public transportation, walking, or biking instead of driving can help reduce your exposure to polluted air while also reducing vehicle emissions.
• Combine errands and reduce trips: Planning your errands efficiently and reducing the number of trips you take in your car can help lower vehicle emissions and your exposure to polluted air.
• Avoid excessive idling: Idling your vehicle for extended periods can contribute to air pollution. By avoiding excessive idling, you can reduce your impact on air quality.
• Refuel your car in the evening: Filling up your car's tank during cooler evening temperatures can help reduce the evaporation of fuel, which contributes to air pollution.
• Conserve electricity: In addition to setting air conditioners to a higher temperature, conserving electricity in general can help reduce emissions from power plants.
• Avoid burning leaves, trash, and other materials: Burning leaves, trash, and other materials releases pollutants into the air. Opting for alternative disposal methods can help improve air quality.

By following these actions and being mindful of air pollution levels, individuals can take steps to reduce their exposure to harmful pollutants and protect their health.

Frequently asked questions