A Prius collected air pollution data in Buffalo for a year. New York is analyzing the numbers

Research Scientists Investigate Air Pollution in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Tonawanda

Introduction

Research scientists at the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) have embarked on a comprehensive study to identify the sources of air pollution in neighborhoods of Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and the Town of Tonawanda. This study is part of a larger statewide effort to reduce air pollution, particularly in densely populated urban areas near heavy traffic and industry.

Data Collection

The DEC spent the past year collecting air quality data daily from a 60-square-mile region in Western New York. A specially equipped hybrid Toyota Prius was used to measure air samples for a dozen pollutants, including black carbon, fine particulate matter, carbon dioxide, methane, and greenhouse gases. The vehicle traveled on all public roads within the Buffalo study zone at least 20 times over the course of a year, collecting air data second by second.

Significance of the Study

The $8 million air quality data collection project in New York is one of the most extensive hyperlocal community air monitoring efforts in the nation. It aims to prioritize disadvantaged communities, as identified by the statewide Climate Justice Working Group, in targeting emissions reductions and investments. The data collected will help researchers track changing levels of pollution and identify strategies to mitigate air pollution in these communities.

Preliminary Findings and Future Recommendations

The data collection phase in Western New York concluded in July, and a data analysis is expected to be completed in January. DEC officials caution that it is still too early to draw conclusions from the data. However, the findings will inform recommendations for reducing air pollution in the identified communities, with a focus on addressing the disproportionate burden faced by these communities.

Community Engagement and Stakeholder Involvement

The DEC has actively engaged with community members and stakeholders throughout the study. Clean Air Coalition of WNY, a co-convener of a stakeholder group, has provided input and feedback to DEC. Additionally, the coalition has been awarded a grant to build a community air monitoring network using PurpleAir monitors. This network will be controlled by trained residents and will contribute to the data collection efforts.

Conclusion

The air pollution study in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Tonawanda is a significant step towards understanding and addressing air pollution in disadvantaged communities. The data collected will help inform strategies to reduce emissions and improve air quality in these areas. The DEC aims to gain the trust of community members through transparency and action.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action

The article discusses the collection of air quality data in specific neighborhoods to address air pollution, which is directly related to the goal of ensuring good health and well-being (SDG 3). The focus on densely populated urban areas near heavy traffic and industry also aligns with the goal of creating sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). Additionally, the project aims to cut air pollution and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the goal of taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts (SDG 13).

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
• Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

The article highlights the collection of air quality data to identify sources of air pollution that may be causing a disproportionate burden on communities. This aligns with Target 3.9 of reducing deaths and illnesses from air pollution. The focus on air quality in urban areas also relates to Target 11.6 of improving air quality in cities. Additionally, the project’s aim to cut air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions supports Target 13.2 of integrating climate change measures into policies and planning.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.
• Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5) in cities.
• Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have communicated the establishment or operationalization of an integrated policy/strategy/plan which increases their ability to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change, and foster climate resilience and low greenhouse gas emissions development in a manner that does not threaten food production.

The article mentions the collection of air quality data, which can be used to measure the mortality rate attributed to air pollution (Indicator 3.9.1). The data collected also includes measurements of fine particulate matter, which can be used to assess the annual mean levels of PM2.5 in cities (Indicator 11.6.2). Additionally, the project’s focus on cutting air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions aligns with Indicator 13.2.1, which measures the establishment or operationalization of integrated policies/strategies/plans for climate resilience and low greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: buffalonews.com

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