Brian Barton
Maryland is close to meeting all federal health-based air quality standards, with the percentage of good and moderate clean air days increasing steadily. However, air pollution remains a significant issue, with power plants, vehicles, and industrial facilities being major sources of pollutants. Coal-fired power plants are the worst offenders, emitting high levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulphur dioxide (SO2), which contribute to particle pollution and ozone formation. Vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and agricultural practices also release pollutants, impacting both air and water quality. These pollutants have adverse health effects, including respiratory issues, heart problems, and premature deaths. Social factors play a role, with low-income and minority areas bearing the brunt of pollution. Maryland has implemented initiatives like the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act to reduce emissions and address environmental justice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Major sources of air pollution | Cars, power plants, industrial boilers, refineries, chemical plants, lawn mowers, and other fuel-burning equipment |
| Major sources of water pollution | Fossil fuels, chemicals from industry, agriculture, and cities |
| Health risks of air pollution | Heart and lung problems, asthma, wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, and premature death |
| Health risks of water pollution | Unsafe drinking water, unsafe fish to eat, endangerment of aquatic life, and damage to recreational areas |
| Pollutants | Nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), mercury, PFAS, PCBs, lead, chromium, zinc, benzene, naphthalene, benzopyrene, and excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus |
| Efforts to reduce air pollution | Maryland Clean Cars Program, Maryland Healthy Air Act, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act (GGRA) |
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What You'll Learn
Air pollution from vehicles and power plants
Maryland is close to meeting all federal health-based air quality standards, thanks to reductions in emissions from utilities, motor vehicles, manufacturing, and consumer products. The state has seen an increase in the number of "good" and "moderate" clean air days due to programs such as the Maryland Clean Cars Program and the Maryland Healthy Air Act, which target cars and power plants—the two major contributors to air pollution.
Air Pollution from Vehicles
Vehicle exhaust fumes are a major source of harmful NO2, SO2, and greenhouse gases. NO2 is a lung irritant that can trigger asthma and reacts with other chemicals to form ozone and particulates. People living near busy highways are at a higher risk of lung illness. Exhaust fumes can also contain dangerous particulate matter, including PM2.5, which can penetrate deeply into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. Diesel fumes are another example of fine particulate matter, which can cause serious health issues.
Air Pollution from Power Plants
Power plants that burn fossil fuels, particularly coal-fired power plants, are a significant source of air pollution in Maryland. Their smokestacks emit NO2, greenhouse gases, toxic mercury, and particulate matter (soot). In 2004, coal-fired power plants emitted 93% of NOx and 99% of SO2 released from electricity generation in the state. Particulate matter from power plants can cause serious health issues, including cancer, impaired lung development in children, and worsened cardiovascular disease. It is also linked to an estimated 560 premature deaths and 21,000 asthma attacks annually in Maryland.
Maryland power plants are subject to stringent local regulations, and the state has made progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, there is a need for better monitoring and enforcement of emission standards, especially for coal-fired power plants, to protect public health and the environment.
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Water pollution from industrial chemicals
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are of particular concern. These "'forever chemicals' are persistent in the environment and have been linked to serious health effects, including cancer, thyroid issues, and reduced vaccine response. In 2020, industrial facilities in Maryland dumped at least 94,000 pounds of toxic chemicals, including PFAS, into the state's waterways, according to the Maryland PIRG Foundation's report, "Wasting Our Waterways." The report also highlights that the actual volume of toxic substances released is likely higher than reported.
The Maryland Department of Environment has detected PFAS in the state's drinking water, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has confirmed that there is no safe level of PFAS in drinking water. This has prompted the EPA to propose a maximum contamination level of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFAS in drinking water, a significant reduction from the previous advisory level of 70 ppt.
Maryland lawmakers are taking steps to address this issue. The Maryland General Assembly is considering a bill to restrict PFAS discharges from large industries into waterways and wastewater treatment plants. Additionally, State Senator Katie Fry Hester and Delegate Sara Love have introduced legislation to hold polluting industries accountable for preventing PFAS contamination in waterways and drinking water sources.
Other industrial pollutants contributing to water pollution in Maryland include PCBs, which were banned in 1977 but still persist in the environment. Heavy metals such as lead, chromium, and zinc are also released by industrial facilities, posing risks to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Furthermore, organic compounds like benzene, naphthalene, and benzopyrene are of concern, with benzene being linked to cancer and other health issues.
Maryland's efforts to address water pollution from industrial chemicals are crucial to protecting the health of its citizens and the state's fragile aquatic ecosystems. By reducing the release of toxic chemicals into waterways and enforcing stricter regulations, Maryland can make significant strides in improving water quality and safeguarding the environment and public health.
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Soil pollution from agricultural chemicals
Maryland's soil and water resources are contaminated due to the blending and production of pesticides and fertilizers during much of the 20th century. The major sources of soil pollution in agricultural areas are:
- Pesticides: Pests and crop diseases have existed since the beginning of agriculture, and humans have continuously sought solutions to reduce crop yield losses. The first pesticides were based on inorganic chemicals such as sulphur, copper, mercury, and arsenic compounds. Over time, the synthetic pesticide industry developed organic pest control compounds, which were seen as a miraculous solution to the world's growing demand for food and to address major public health concerns. However, the widespread use of pesticides can impact soil organisms, wildlife, non-target plant species, and human health. Pesticides are toxic to humans and wildlife and can accumulate in the food chain.
- Fertilizers: Excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from chemical fertilizers can cause an overgrowth of algae, disrupting aquatic ecosystems.
- Organic fertilizers (manure and sewage sludge): While manure can be beneficial for soil health when managed properly, excessive amounts can contribute to nutrient pollution.
- Wastewater for irrigation: Using wastewater for irrigation can introduce pollutants into the soil, including chemicals from household products and untreated sewage.
- Plastic materials: Plastic films used for mulching, greenhouses, irrigation tubes, and packaging can contribute to soil pollution when not properly disposed of.
- Rural wastes: Agricultural practices such as over-tilling soil and over-applying fertilizers can lead to soil erosion and the release of pollutants into the environment.
Maryland has implemented various measures to address these issues, including the Clean Water Blueprint, also known as the Watershed Implementation Plan, which aims to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus pollution from farms by promoting practices such as cover crops, manure transport, and riparian forest buffers. Conservation practices, such as reduced tillage and nutrient management planning, are also encouraged to minimize agricultural runoff and soil erosion.
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Ozone pollution from power plants and vehicles
Ozone pollution is a serious issue in Maryland, particularly during the summer months when strong sunlight and warm temperatures lead to high levels of ground-level ozone in the air. Ground-level ozone is a harmful pollutant that can cause a range of health issues, including chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, congestion, and aggravation of asthma and other chronic lung diseases. It is formed when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) interact in the presence of sunlight and warm temperatures.
Power plants and vehicles are major contributors to ozone pollution in Maryland. Coal-fired power plants, in particular, are the worst offenders, accounting for over 95% of power plant emissions in the state. These power plants emit large amounts of NOx, which is a precursor to ozone formation. Maryland has implemented regulations to reduce pollution from these power plants, such as the Maryland Healthy Air Act, which mandates significant reductions in NOx emissions.
Vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs, also contribute significantly to ozone pollution in Maryland. Vehicle exhaust fumes release NOx and VOCs, as well as other pollutants such as NO2, SO2, and greenhouse gases. Maryland has taken steps to reduce emissions from vehicles through programs like the Maryland Clean Cars Program, which encourages carpooling, telecommuting, and the use of mass transit.
In addition to power plants and vehicles, other sources of ozone-forming emissions include lawn mowers and other fuel-burning equipment, vapors from gasoline and paints, and industrial processes. To address ozone pollution, Maryland has invested in technology to comply with the Maryland Healthy Air Act and has exceeded its goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These efforts have resulted in significant improvements in the state's air quality, with metropolitan Baltimore meeting the federal standard for ground-level ozone pollution for the first time in over three decades.
However, despite these improvements, Maryland continues to face challenges in reducing ozone pollution. The EPA is expected to propose even more stringent ozone standards, requiring continued efforts and reductions in emissions from power plants and vehicles to ensure compliance. Overall, addressing ozone pollution in Maryland is crucial for protecting public health, improving air quality, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
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Nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide emissions
Nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) are two of the major pollutants in Maryland, and they have a significant impact on the state's air quality. These pollutants are primarily emitted by power plants, industries, and vehicles, particularly those burning fossil fuels.
NOx emissions are a critical issue in Maryland, as they are the principal contributor to the state's ozone problem. Ground-level ozone is a harmful pollutant and is formed when nitrogen oxides interact with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. This ground-level ozone is a component of urban smog and can trigger a range of health issues, including respiratory problems such as chest pain, coughing, and throat irritation. It can also worsen existing conditions like bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. In recognition of the health risks posed by NOx emissions, the Maryland Healthy Air Act was implemented to reduce emissions from the state's largest coal-burning power plants. This legislation has successfully reduced NOx emissions by almost 70% in its first phase, with further reductions planned beyond 2012.
SO2, on the other hand, is a major contributor to fine particulate pollution in Maryland. Particulate pollution, or particle pollution, refers to the mixture of microscopic solids and liquid droplets suspended in the air. These fine particles can be emitted directly or formed secondarily from complex atmospheric reactions of gases, such as SO2, emitted from power plants and industries. SO2 also poses environmental concerns, as it mixes with water to form acid rain, causing damage to buildings, plants, and ecosystems. The Maryland Healthy Air Act and the Clear Skies Act both aim to reduce SO2 emissions, with the former achieving an 80% reduction in its initial phase.
The efforts to reduce NOx and SO2 emissions in Maryland are crucial not only for improving air quality but also for mitigating the associated health and environmental risks. By targeting these pollutants, Maryland is taking significant steps towards protecting the well-being of its residents and the surrounding natural habitats.
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Frequently asked questions
Maryland's air pollution is largely due to emissions from cars and power plants. Coal-fired power plants are the worst offenders, emitting 93% of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and 99% of sulphur dioxide (SO2) in 2004. Vehicle exhaust fumes are a major source of NO2, SO2, and greenhouse gases.
Air pollution is directly attributable to heart and lung problems, asthma attacks, and even premature death. Large pollutant particles (PM10) can cause irritation and discomfort, while small, fine pollutant particles (PM2.5) can penetrate deeply into lung tissue and enter the bloodstream. Particulate matter can also suppress immune function, cause cancer, worsen cardiovascular disease, and impair children's lung development.
Maryland has implemented various programs and policies to improve air quality, such as the Maryland Clean Cars Program, the Maryland Healthy Air Act, and the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act (GGRA). These initiatives aim to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and protect public health.
