Environmental Health

Air pollution is a global risk we can measure and reduce.

Air pollution is a mix of gases, particles, and chemicals in the air that can harm human health, ecosystems, and climate. Understanding sources and solutions helps communities act faster.

Explore the Data

PM2.5

Fine particles that penetrate deep into lungs.

NO₂

Traffic-related gas linked to respiratory issues.

O₃

Ground-level ozone that irritates lungs and crops.

What Counts as Air Pollution?

Common pollutants include particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone (O₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and lead. Levels vary by city, weather, traffic, industrial activity, and wildfire smoke.

Outdoor Sources

  • Vehicle exhaust and congestion corridors
  • Power plants and industrial facilities
  • Construction dust and open burning
  • Wildfires and seasonal smoke events

Indoor Sources

  • Cooking fuels and poor ventilation
  • Heating appliances and tobacco smoke
  • Volatile compounds from products and materials
  • Mold, aerosols, and trapped particulates

Why It Matters

Human Health

Exposure can worsen asthma and COPD, increase heart and stroke risks, and affect pregnancy outcomes. Children and older adults are especially vulnerable.

Environment

Pollutants damage forests, acidify soil and water, reduce crop yields, and contribute to haze that lowers visibility.

Climate Link

Some pollutants directly warm the atmosphere, while others (like methane and ozone precursors) interact with climate systems and extreme weather patterns.

What Works

1

Clean Transport

Expand public transit, safer walking/cycling, and EV access.

2

Energy Transition

Shift from coal/oil to low-emission electricity generation.

3

Stronger Standards

Monitor air quality and enforce industrial emission limits.

4

Personal Actions

Check local AQI, reduce burning, improve indoor ventilation, and use filtration during smoke events.