Kiera Jefferson
Oregon and Washington are two states known for their lush landscapes and natural beauty. However, in recent years, the issue of pollution has become a growing concern for residents and environmentalists alike. Wildfires, agricultural burning, and winter weather phenomena have all contributed to periods of poor air quality, with Oregon in particular experiencing record-breaking levels of hazardous air pollution in 2020. With the health and well-being of citizens at risk, what measures are being taken to address these pressing environmental challenges? This article will explore the current state of pollution in Oregon and Washington, the factors contributing to it, and the steps being taken to mitigate this issue and protect the health and natural beauty of these states.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Oregon cities' average AQI in 2019 | 38 |
| Oregon cities' average AQI in 2017 and 2018 | 43 |
| Oregon city with the highest PM2.5 in 2019 | Aloha (13.9 μg/m3) |
| Oregon city with the lowest PM2.5 in 2019 | Shady Cove (5.1 μg/m3) |
| Number of cities in Oregon that broke records for unhealthy air pollution in 2020 | 5 (Portland, Eugene, Bend, Medford, and Klamath Falls) |
| Number of cities in Oregon that broke records for hazardous air quality in 2020 | 4 (Eugene, Bend, Medford, and Portland) |
| Number of cities in Oregon that broke records for hazardous air quality in 2017 | 1 (Medford) |
| Primary sources of PM2.5 in Oregon | Wildfires, winter wood burning, temperature inversions, and agricultural waste burning |
| Top three urban pollution sources in Oregon | Burning agricultural waste, farming, and forest management |
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What You'll Learn
Oregon's most polluted cities
Oregon has a reputation for being passionate about climate change and the environment. However, a report from May 2024 revealed that two Oregon cities are among the top ten most polluted cities in the US. The report, compiled by the EPA, focused on the two most common kinds of air pollution: ozone (smog) and particle pollution.
In 2019, Oregon cities averaged an annual air quality index (AQI) level of 38, passing the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard of less than 50. This was an improvement on 2017 and 2018, which averaged an AQI of 43. Despite this, in 2020, Oregon broke records for the most acres burned in a single wildfire season, and several cities, including Portland, Eugene, and Medford, shattered records for unhealthy air pollution.
Oregon's winter weather can trap pollution emissions in the valleys between mountains due to a phenomenon called "cool air inversions". During the winter months, PM2.5 levels rise as households burn wood for heating. In 2019, the cities of Aloha, Veneta, Canby, Cottage Grove, and Keizer experienced heightened PM2.5 levels during the months of October through February due to winter wood burning and temperature inversions. Of the six criteria pollutants monitored by the EPA in real-time, fine particle pollution, or PM2.5, is of primary concern in the state.
The cities of Shady Cove, Birkenfeld, La Grande, Florence, and Sisters were ranked as having the cleanest air in Oregon for PM2.5 pollution in 2019.
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Causes of pollution in Oregon
Oregon's air quality has improved in recent years, with the state's cities averaging an annual Air Quality Index (AQI) level of 38 in 2019, passing the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard of less than 50. This was an improvement from 2017 and 2018, which averaged an AQI of 43. However, Oregon still faces several challenges when it comes to air pollution.
One of the leading causes of unhealthy air pollution in Oregon is regional wildfires, which have become increasingly common due to dry conditions, hot temperatures, forest undergrowth, steep mountains, and strong winds. In 2020, Oregon broke records for the most acres burned in a single wildfire season, and several cities, including Portland, Eugene, Bend, Medford, and Klamath Falls, experienced hazardous air pollution levels. Wildfires release fine particle pollution, known as PM2.5, which includes dust, dirt, ash, soot, chemicals, metals, and vapors. These particles are small enough to enter the human circulatory system and cause short- and long-term health issues, including an increased risk of lung cancer, heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory problems.
Another factor contributing to air pollution in Oregon is the phenomenon of "cool air inversions," which occurs during the winter when freezing ground-level air is trapped between mountains due to a warmer air layer above. This results in the accumulation of emissions and increased pollution levels. Cities like Aloha, Veneta, Canby, Cottage Grove, and Keizer experience heightened PM2.5 levels during the winter months due to wood burning for domestic heating and temperature inversions.
Additionally, Oregon's largest city, Portland, has faced issues with ozone pollution and carbon monoxide (CO) levels. While emission controls have improved the air quality in recent years, rising temperatures due to climate change have extended the ozone season and accelerated ozone formation. Ozone is a highly reactive gas that irritates the lungs and can cause breathing difficulties.
Other sources of urban pollution in Oregon include burning agricultural waste, farming, and forest management practices. The state has recognized the importance of addressing air pollution and has adopted a Climate Protection Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel companies.
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Oregon's cleanest cities
Oregon's air quality is generally considered safe to breathe. In 2019, Oregon cities averaged an annual air quality index (AQI) level of 38, passing the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard of less than 50. This was an improvement from the previous two years, 2017 and 2018, which both averaged an AQI of 43.
However, Oregon is not immune to air pollution. In 2020, Oregon broke records for the most acres burned in a single wildfire season, and several Oregon cities shattered records for unhealthy air pollution. Portland, Eugene, Bend, Medford, and Klamath Falls all beat the record pollution levels previously set by the 2017 wildfire season.
Despite these challenges, Oregon is taking steps to improve its air quality. The state adopted a Climate Protection Plan in 2021, which was promised to be one of the strongest climate action plans in the country.
When it comes to Oregon's cleanest cities for PM2.5 pollution, here are five that stand out:
- Shady Cove: With a PM2.5 level of 5.1 μg/m3, Shady Cove is one of Oregon's cleanest cities. It is located in the southern part of the state and is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Birkenfeld: Birkenfeld has a PM2.5 level of 5.5 μg/m3, making it another one of Oregon's cleanest cities. It is situated in the state's northwestern region and is surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes.
- La Grande: La Grande, located in northeastern Oregon, boasts a PM2.5 level of 5.6 μg/m3. It offers a charming small-town atmosphere and is known for its friendly community.
- Florence: With a PM2.5 level of 5.6 μg/m3, Florence is another clean city in Oregon. It is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, scenic coastline, and vibrant art scene.
- Sisters: Sisters, with a PM2.5 level of 5.7 μg/m3, is a charming city in central Oregon. It is surrounded by picturesque mountains and forests, offering a serene and clean environment for its residents and visitors alike.
These cities have lower levels of PM2.5 pollution, which is a primary concern in the state. PM2.5 refers to fine particle pollution, which includes airborne particulate matter measuring 2.5 micrometers or smaller. While Oregon continues to make progress in improving its air quality, natural phenomena like wildfires and temperature inversions can pose challenges and impact the state's overall air pollution levels.
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How pollution affects health
While Oregon cities averaged an annual air quality index (AQI) level of 38 in 2019, passing the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard of less than 50, the state is home to two of the ten most polluted cities in the US. Oregon's winter weather can trap pollution emissions in the valleys between mountains due to a phenomenon called "cool air inversions." Wildfires are another significant source of PM2.5 pollution, causing exceptionally high levels, especially in late summer and early fall. In 2020, several Oregon cities, including Portland, Eugene, and Bend, broke records for unhealthy air pollution due to wildfire activity.
Now, let's discuss how pollution affects health:
Respiratory Health
Air pollution is primarily a threat to respiratory health. Fine particulate matter, such as PM2.5, can penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, and travel to organs, causing systemic damage to tissues and cells. This can lead to respiratory diseases such as asthma, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic bronchitis. Higher levels of air pollution are associated with increased short-term respiratory infections, resulting in more school absences for children. Wildfire smoke exposure has also been linked to more severe cases of COVID-19 and higher mortality rates.
Cardiovascular Health
Air pollution exposure contributes to oxidative stress and inflammation in human cells, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart disease and stroke. It can also worsen existing heart conditions.
Cancer
In 2013, the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organization (WHO) classified air pollution as a human carcinogen. Specific pollutants, such as radon and tobacco smoke, are known to increase the risk of lung cancer.
Neurological and Developmental Health
Maternal exposure to air pollution has been associated with adverse birth outcomes, such as low birth weight, pre-term birth, and small for gestational age births. There is also growing evidence that air pollution may impact neurological development in children and increase the risk of diabetes. Fine particulate matter, such as PM2.5, can affect brain development, with studies showing links to brain shrinkage in older women.
Bone Health
High levels of air pollutants have been associated with bone damage, particularly in postmenopausal women.
Socioeconomic and Demographic Factors
It is important to note that the health effects of air pollution vary depending on socioeconomic and demographic factors. Low-income communities and minority populations are often disproportionately exposed to air pollution and are more vulnerable to its adverse health impacts. Additionally, children living in low-income urban areas tend to have higher rates of asthma due to increased pollution levels.
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Climate action plans
While Oregon and Washington have experienced high levels of pollution, particularly due to wildfires, both states have implemented climate action plans to address this issue.
Oregon Climate Action
In 2019, Oregon cities averaged an annual Air Quality Index (AQI) level of 38, meeting the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard. This was an improvement from 2017 and 2018, which experienced higher pollution levels due to severe wildfire seasons. Oregon's winter weather can trap pollution emissions in mountain valleys due to "cool air inversions," leading to increased pollution levels. To address these challenges, Oregon has developed a Roadmap to 2030 with six key strategies:
- Robustly implement existing climate programs and regulations.
- Adopt updated state greenhouse gas goals based on scientific recommendations.
- Advance additional climate actions, such as the TIGHGER Actions, to accelerate emission reduction goals.
- Continue studies and analysis to guide effective climate action.
- Strengthen governance and accountability for climate action.
- Leverage federal investments in climate action.
Washington Climate Action
Washington State has also taken significant steps towards addressing climate change through initiatives like the Washington Climate Partnership, which aims to develop near- and long-term strategies to meet the state's ambitious climate goals for 2030 and beyond. The state has enacted laws such as the Climate Commitment Act (CCA) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address environmental justice. The CCA includes a market-based cap-and-invest program that incentivizes businesses to find efficient ways to lower carbon emissions. Additionally, local governments in Washington engaged in climate action planning set their own reduction targets and strategies. The King County Climate Action Toolkit provides technical resources to assist jurisdictions in developing and strengthening their Climate Action Plans (CAPs).
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Frequently asked questions
Oregon has experienced hazardous levels of air pollution in recent years, with 2020 being a record-breaking year for the state. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality reported that every DEQ-monitored city reached unhealthy or hazardous levels. This was due to smoke from wildfires in California, as well as Oregon's own Bootleg Fire. In 2019, Oregon cities averaged an annual Air Quality Index (AQI) level of 38, passing the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard of 50.
The leading cause of "unhealthy" or worse air pollution in Oregon is regional wildfires. Winter weather can also trap pollution emissions in the valleys between mountains due to a phenomenon called "cool air inversions." Other sources of pollution include burning agricultural waste, farming, and forest management.
In 2019, the cities with the highest levels of PM2.5 pollution were Aloha, Veneta, Canby, Cottage Grove, and Keizer. In 2020, Portland, Eugene, Bend, Medford, and Klamath Falls all broke records for unhealthy air pollution.
Oregon has taken steps to address pollution, such as adopting a statewide Climate Protection Plan in 2021. Environmental regulators are also pushing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel companies. Additionally, the state has implemented air pollution advisories and monitoring systems to track and manage pollution levels.
