Meghan Hodges
New Jersey has some of the worst and best air in the nation. The state's air quality has been a concern for residents, with vehicle emissions, industrial sources, and natural causes all contributing to the problem. The American Lung Association's State of the Air report for 2020 revealed that while year-round particle pollution levels in New Jersey showed improvement, the state's major metro areas continued to rank among the worst in the nation for ozone smog. The report also highlighted that ozone pollution, which is facilitated by warm weather and sunshine, poses significant health risks, especially to children, older adults, and people with lung diseases. New Jersey's water quality has also been an issue, with the Passaic River being the most polluted due to decades of industrial pollution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air pollution | New Jersey has some of the worst and best air in the nation. |
| Ozone air pollution | Nearly all of the state in metro areas rank among the worst 25 in the nation. |
| Fine particle pollution | Rankings for year-round levels remain poor. |
| Counties with the most ozone-polluted air | Newark-NYC, Bergen, Morris, Camden, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, and Ocean. |
| Counties with the fewest high-ozone days | Atlantic, Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, and Warren |
| Counties with the fewest high-particle pollution days | Cumberland, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, and Morris |
| Causes of air pollution | Vehicle emissions, non-car engines, stormwater runoff, industrial sources, power plants that burn fossil fuels, and natural sources. |
| Health effects of air pollution | Coughing, shortness of breath, worsening asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, heart attacks, strokes, and low birth weight. |
| Water pollution | The Passaic River is the most polluted river in New Jersey due to decades of industrial pollution. |
| Soil pollution | Lead from old paint, residues of leaded gasoline, sewage sludge used as fertilizer, and harmful chemicals from industrial facilities. |
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What You'll Learn
New Jersey's air pollution
New Jersey has some of the worst air quality in the United States. According to the American Lung Association's 2020 "State of the Air" report, air quality in New Jersey has generally improved, but its major metropolitan areas continue to rank among the worst in the nation for ozone smog. Thirteen North Jersey counties fell into the 12th worst metro area (New York-Newark), and the metropolitan area ranked 64th worst for fine particle pollution. The Camden metropolitan area, which includes Philadelphia, Reading, and seven New Jersey counties, was the 35th most polluted metro area nationally.
Ozone air pollution in New Jersey placed the health of about 8.9 million residents at risk, including older adults, children, and those with lung diseases. Ozone pollution can harm even healthy individuals, but it is particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups. Breathing ozone-polluted air can trigger asthma attacks in both adults and children with asthma and can even shorten people's lives.
Particle pollution, which comes from industry, coal-fired power plants, diesel emissions, wildfires, and wood-burning devices, is another concern in New Jersey. While year-round particle pollution levels in the state have improved, extreme heat and drought driven by climate change have sparked more wildfires, increasing particle pollution. The 2020 "State of the Air" report found that even the worst level of fine particle pollution in the state (in Camden County) met the national standard.
Vehicle emissions and industrial sources are major contributors to New Jersey's air pollution. The state has made progress by adopting a rule requiring all new cars sold to be electric by 2035, and the Murphy administration has set a goal for a 100% clean-energy economy by 2035. However, more stringent rules and efforts are needed to reduce air pollution and protect public health.
While New Jersey has shown some improvements in air quality, particularly in reducing particle pollution, it continues to face challenges with ozone pollution and the impacts of climate change. The state's highly populated areas and transportation hot zones, like the I-95 corridor, are hot zones for high-level ozone concentrations. The state's progress towards cleaner energy and transportation is a step in the right direction, but continued efforts are necessary to ensure healthier air for its residents.
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The impact of climate change
New Jersey has some of the worst and best air in the nation. The state's major metro areas, including Newark-NYC, Bergen, and Morris counties, continue to rank among the worst in the US for ozone smog. This is driven by emissions from vehicles and industrial sources, both locally and from upwind.
Ozone pollution is particularly dangerous for children, older adults, and people with lung diseases such as COPD or asthma. It can trigger asthma attacks and even shorten people's lives. Warmer temperatures brought by climate change are making ozone more likely to form and harder to clean up.
Climate change is making it more challenging to reduce air pollution in New Jersey. The state has taken steps to address these issues, such as adopting a rule requiring all new cars sold to be electric by 2035, and setting a goal for a 100% clean-energy economy by 2035. While these efforts are positive, more stringent measures may be needed to effectively combat the impact of climate change and improve air quality in the state.
In addition to air pollution, New Jersey also faces water pollution issues. The Passaic River, for instance, has been heavily polluted by industrial waste, and the state's drinking water is often unsafe due to various contaminants. Pollution from stormwater runoff, sewage, and industrial facilities further exacerbates the problem, highlighting the need for comprehensive solutions to address the impact of climate change and human activities on the environment.
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Water pollution
New Jersey has a long history of environmental pollution, and its water bodies have suffered greatly due to industrial and municipal waste. The state's waterways, including its rivers, streams, and coastal waters, have been impacted by various pollutants, including toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and raw sewage.
One of the main sources of water pollution in New Jersey is industrial discharge. The state has a strong industrial presence, with many factories and manufacturing plants located along its waterways. Unfortunately, improper waste disposal and outdated treatment facilities have led to the release of toxic chemicals into the water. These pollutants can have severe ecological consequences, contaminating aquatic ecosystems and endangering the health of both wildlife and humans. High levels of mercury, lead, and other heavy metals have been detected in New Jersey's water bodies, posing risks to fish and other aquatic life, as well as people who consume contaminated seafood.
Sewage pollution is another significant issue plaguing New Jersey's waters. Aging and overloaded sewage systems often overflow during heavy rainfall, releasing untreated or partially treated sewage into nearby rivers and streams. This contamination introduces harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients that disrupt the natural balance of aquatic ecosystems. The excessive nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, can fuel the growth of algae blooms, which deplete oxygen levels in the water, leading to the death of fish and other aquatic organisms.
Additionally, stormwater runoff contributes to water pollution in New Jersey. As rainwater flows over impervious surfaces, such as paved roads and parking lots, it picks up various contaminants, including oil, grease, chemicals, and litter. These pollutants are then carried into storm drains that often discharge directly into nearby waterways without adequate treatment. Stormwater runoff can also carry sediment, which clouds the water, smothering aquatic habitats and impairing the ability of fish to spawn and survive.
The consequences of water pollution in New Jersey are far-reaching. Contaminated water sources not only pose risks to human health but also threaten the state's biodiversity and ecological integrity. Pollution has led to the decline of certain fish species and disrupted the delicate balance of aquatic food chains. Moreover, polluted waterways detract from the aesthetic beauty of New Jersey's natural landscapes, impacting recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing, and ultimately affecting the state's tourism industry.
Efforts are being made to address water pollution in New Jersey. Strict regulations and enforcement measures are being implemented to reduce industrial discharges and improve wastewater treatment processes. Upgrades to sewage infrastructure and the adoption of better stormwater management practices are also underway. By investing in research, monitoring, and education, New Jersey aims to restore and protect its precious water resources, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for its residents and wildlife alike.
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Point source pollution
New Jersey has long been one of the most polluted states in the US, with air, water, and soil pollution posing significant challenges. While the state has made notable improvements in recent years, particularly in reducing particle pollution, ozone pollution remains a critical issue, especially in highly populated areas and transportation hubs.
To address point source pollution, New Jersey implemented the 2020 Environmental Justice Law, which makes it more difficult for new sources of pollution to establish themselves in areas with already high pollution levels. This law represents a crucial step in the state's efforts to reduce overall pollution and improve the health and well-being of its residents.
Additionally, New Jersey has taken steps to phase out sales of diesel-powered trucks and limit air pollution from diesel-powered cargo equipment at its ports. These initiatives have likely contributed to the decrease in particle pollution levels seen in recent years. Furthermore, the state has banned single-use plastic bags and polystyrene takeout containers, helping to reduce plastic pollution in water bodies and mitigate the issue of clogged storm runoff systems.
While New Jersey continues to battle existing pollution and its lasting impacts, these legislative actions and targeted initiatives offer a promising path toward a cleaner and healthier future for the state and its residents.
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Nonpoint source pollution
New Jersey has some of the worst and best air in the nation. While the air quality in New Jersey has generally improved, its major metro areas continue to rank among the worst in the nation for
Ozone air pollution in New Jersey has placed the health of about 8.9 million residents at risk, including vulnerable groups such as older adults, children, and those with lung diseases. Ozone pollution can harm even healthy individuals, but it is particularly dangerous for these vulnerable groups, triggering asthma attacks and other health issues.
Vehicle pollution and industrial sources are major contributors to elevated ozone levels in the state. The I-95 corridor, a highly populated area, is a hot zone for high-level ozone concentrations. To address this issue, New Jersey has adopted a rule requiring all new cars sold to be electric by 2035, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
While New Jersey received mixed results in the annual snapshot of air pollution, it is important to note that the state is taking steps to improve air quality. The shift away from fossil fuels and the goal for a 100% clean-energy economy by 2035 are positive initiatives. Additionally, the Murphy administration's efforts toward a clean-energy economy are applauded by experts.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, New Jersey is polluted. It is rated the 19th most polluted state in the U.S.
New Jersey is affected by air pollution, water pollution, and soil pollution.
Vehicle emissions are a major source of air pollution in New Jersey, with about one-third of all air pollution in the state coming from vehicles burning gas or diesel fuel.
The state has adopted a rule requiring all new cars sold to be electric by 2035, and the Murphy administration has set a goal for a 100% clean-energy economy by 2035.
Newark-NYC and Bergen and Morris counties have the most ozone-polluted air in New Jersey. The Passaic River is the most polluted river in the state due to decades of industrial pollution.
