Understanding Us Pollution: Major Causes And Effects

Pollution in the United States is a pressing concern for environmental organizations, government agencies, and individuals. The country contributes significantly to global emissions, with human activities responsible for the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere over the last 150 years. Burning fossil fuels for electricity, heat, and transportation is the largest source of these emissions, with the transportation sector being the largest contributor of direct greenhouse gas emissions. Air pollution, caused by vehicle emissions, fuel oils, natural gas, manufacturing by-products, and power generation, poses a significant threat to public health, increasing the risk of various diseases and health issues such as cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, neurological disorders, and even early death. Waterways are also impacted, with pollution by phosphorus and nitrogen costing government agencies, drinking water facilities, and individuals billions of dollars annually.

Burning fossil fuels

The United States is a significant contributor to global emissions, and the impact of its greenhouse gas emissions transcends national borders. The country's efforts to reduce emissions are influenced by broader global dynamics, making it challenging to control the spread of climate-related issues solely on a national level. However, the Clean Air Act, established in 1970, authorizes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate harmful air pollutant emissions and safeguard public health.

Transportation is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels, with over 94% of the fuel used in this sector being petroleum-based. Cars, trucks, ships, trains, and planes all contribute to these emissions. Additionally, the combustion of additives found in gasoline, such as benzene and toluene, produces cancer-causing ultra-fine particles and aromatic hydrocarbons. These emissions have severe health consequences, with fossil fuel pollution being responsible for a significant number of premature deaths in the United States each year.

The burning of fossil fuels also affects water quality. Oil spills and fracking fluids contaminate water sources, while the wastewater generated by fracking wells often contains toxic substances like arsenic, lead, chlorine, and mercury, which can pollute groundwater and drinking water. Furthermore, the use of large amounts of freshwater by fossil fuel power plants can cause stress for local species in nearby ecosystems.

To mitigate the environmental and health impacts of burning fossil fuels, businesses and individuals can take several measures. Businesses can reduce emissions by improving energy efficiency and investing in renewable energy sources. Individuals can contribute by conserving energy, reducing car usage, and opting for more energy-efficient equipment.

Vehicle emissions

Federal and state vehicle emissions standards are set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). In December 2021, the EPA issued revised national greenhouse gas emissions standards for passenger cars and light trucks through model year 2026. NHTSA also issued fuel economy standards for light-duty vehicles for model years 2024-2026. Additionally, the EPA has established new, more stringent standards to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from heavy-duty vehicles and engines, which will result in significant health benefits.

To promote the adoption of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), President Biden signed Executive Order 14037, Strengthening American Leadership in Clean Cars and Trucks, in August 2021. This order sets a non-binding target of making 50% of all new passenger car and light truck sales ZEVs by 2030. Leading US automakers have voluntarily committed to making 40-50% of their sales electric by 2030. Electric vehicles (EVs) have zero tailpipe emissions, resulting in lower levels of greenhouse gases compared to gasoline cars. However, the production and charging of EV batteries can also create carbon pollution, depending on the energy sources used.

While efforts are being made to reduce vehicle emissions, the impact of these emissions extends beyond national borders, affecting countries worldwide. The United States must address both its own emissions and the global dynamics contributing to climate change. Additionally, disparities in air quality across racial groups persist, with people of color in the US being 1.5 times more likely to live in areas with poor air quality.

Manufacturing by-products

The release of these by-products into the environment has been limited by regulations such as the Clean Water Act of 1972 and the Clean Air Act of 1970. These regulations have helped to reduce air concentrations of sulfur dioxide and lead, as well as improve water quality in previously polluted waterways. In 2019, approximately 21,000 facilities reported releasing pollutants, with the majority being released onto land, followed by air and water.

The impact of manufacturing by-products on the environment is influenced by various factors, including the total output of manufacturing, the types of products produced, and the amount of pollution emitted per unit of output. Environmental regulations have played a significant role in reducing pollution from manufacturing, with the implicit pollution tax on U.S. manufacturing firms more than doubling between 1990 and 2008.

The manufacturing sector's contribution to water pollution includes wastewater released into streams, rivers, and lakes, as well as leaks from tanks storing chemicals that can leach into groundwater. Paper and textile manufacturing, which use chemicals such as chlorine and benzene, are among the processes that contribute to water pollution.

Overall, while pollution from U.S. manufacturing has declined since 1990, the impact of manufacturing by-products on the environment remains a concern, requiring ongoing efforts to reduce pollution and protect natural resources.

Poor water quality

One of the primary causes of poor water quality in the United States is industrial pollution. Industrial activities often release toxic chemicals into water sources, leading to contamination. In 2019, it was reported that approximately 201 million pounds of toxic chemicals were released into water sources by various facilities. These chemicals can include heavy metals, radionuclides, and other harmful substances. As a result, drinking water sources for hundreds of millions of people are contaminated with dangerous pollutants, such as lead, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and industrial waste.

Agricultural runoff is another major contributor to poor water quality. Pollution from nitrogen and phosphorus in freshwater ecosystems, often stemming from agricultural activities, has detrimental effects. It not only harms aquatic life but also imposes economic costs on Americans. Higher water treatment costs, increased bottled water expenses, and lower property values near polluted water bodies are some of the financial implications associated with agricultural runoff. Additionally, recreational activities dependent on clean water, such as fishing and boating, can decline, further impacting local economies.

The issue of poor water quality is further exacerbated by inadequate water infrastructure. Chronic underinvestment has left water infrastructure outdated and vulnerable to failure. For example, the water treatment plant in Jackson, Mississippi, was damaged by historic flooding, leaving over 150,000 people without safe drinking water for weeks. Moreover, incomplete plumbing is prevalent in many households, and water quality standards are not always met, with a significant number of community water systems in serious violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The consequences of poor water quality are far-reaching. Exposure to contaminated water can lead to various health issues, from short-term symptoms like gastrointestinal illnesses and headaches to long-term risks such as cancer and nervous system damage. Additionally, the economic impact is significant, with freshwater pollution by phosphorus and nitrogen costing government agencies, drinking water facilities, and individuals billions of dollars annually.

Addressing poor water quality requires a comprehensive approach. While efforts like the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have allocated funds to improve water treatment and distribution systems, a more substantial and sustained investment is necessary. Policies that promote regenerative agriculture and advance environmental justice are crucial for reducing pollution and ensuring equitable access to clean water for all communities.

Pesticide pollution

The United States is one of the largest agricultural producers and users of agricultural pesticides globally, along with the European Union, Brazil, and China. A comparison of the regulatory landscape in these countries revealed that there are 72 pesticides approved for outdoor agricultural use in the US that have been banned or are in the process of being phased out in at least one of the other three nations. This highlights a lag in the US when it comes to banning harmful pesticides, which has implications for the health and safety of its citizens and the environment.

The impact of pesticide pollution is not evenly distributed, with communities of color and low-income communities bearing the brunt of the burden. These communities are more likely to live near chemical manufacturing and storage facilities, and they often face substandard living conditions that lead to chronic pest problems and, subsequently, increased pesticide use. A study found that over half of the public housing units in Boston, where 98% of residents identified as Hispanic or Black, had at least six pesticides present in dust samples. This disproportionate impact on marginalized communities is a result of systemic racism and inequality, as these communities have less political power and have historically been marginalized.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has faced criticism for its handling of pesticide regulation, with some arguing that it has abandoned its use of non-voluntary cancellations, making pesticide cancellation dependent on the consent of the regulated industry. The adoption of the ""precautionary principle"" has been suggested as a way to empower regulators to proactively prevent harmful activities and protect public health more effectively. However, this approach has met resistance from both the government and polluting industries.

To address pesticide pollution and mitigate its impact on vulnerable communities, a range of measures need to be implemented. These include stronger and more equitable regulatory frameworks, increased investment in public housing to improve living conditions, and the adoption of organic farming practices and alternative pest management solutions. By taking comprehensive action, the US can reduce the environmental and health risks associated with pesticide pollution and move towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

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