Chicago’s Bad Air Quality Might Be Around For Awhile. Here’s What You Should Know

Chicago’s Air Quality and the Impact on Health

Earlier this summer, Chicago experienced the worst air quality in the world due to wildfire smoke from Canada. The air quality index reached a level of 175, and since then, Chicago has consistently had poor air quality, resulting in the highest number of air pollution advisories since 2012.

The severity and frequency of wildfires are increasing globally due to climate change, making it essential to monitor local air pollution. The Air Quality Life Index (AQLI), a research project at the University of Chicago’s Energy Policy Institute, translates air quality measurements into their impact on life expectancy. By following the World Health Organization’s guidelines for air quality, the AQLI determines how much longer someone would live.

Understanding Air Quality Measurements

The AQLI focuses specifically on measuring particulate matter, known as PM 2.5. This type of pollutant is prevalent during wildfires and can have long-term health effects. PM 2.5 particles are small enough to bypass the body’s natural defenses and directly enter the lungs.

Air quality that exceeds 35 µg/m3 is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should take extra precautions on highly polluted days, such as closing windows, using HEPA air filters, avoiding outdoor activities, and wearing properly fitting N95 masks when necessary.

Resources for Monitoring Air Quality

In addition to the AQLI, there are several resources available for determining air quality in your area. The EPA Air Quality map, AirNow.gov, and OpenAQ.org provide valuable information. OpenAQ.org also includes data from informal monitoring sources and citizen scientists, offering a more comprehensive understanding of air quality at the neighborhood level.

The Global Context

While Chicago has experienced poor air quality in recent weeks, it’s important to recognize that some parts of the world consistently face similar or worse conditions. Climate change exacerbates these issues, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to protect air quality and public health.

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Indicator: Air quality index and levels of particulate matter (PM 2.5) in the air.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • 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.
   • Indicator: Air quality index and levels of particulate matter (PM 2.5) in the air.

3. SDG 13: Climate Action

   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
   • Indicator: Impact of climate change on severity and frequency of wildfires.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Analysis

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

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 13: Climate Action.

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

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

• 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 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.

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

Yes, there are indicators mentioned in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Air quality index and levels of particulate matter (PM 2.5) in the air.
• Impact of climate change on severity and frequency of wildfires.

The article discusses the air quality index (AQI) and particulate matter (PM 2.5) as measures of air pollution. These indicators can be used to assess progress towards reducing deaths and illnesses from hazardous air pollution (Target 3.9) and improving air quality in cities (Target 11.6). The article also mentions the impact of climate change on the severity and frequency of wildfires, which can be used as an indicator to measure progress towards strengthening resilience to climate-related hazards (Target 13.1).

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: blockclubchicago.org

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