Communities of color at increased risk of diseases linked to air pollution: GW study

A Study Reveals Communities of Color at Higher Risk of Diseases Linked to Air Pollution

A new study conducted by researchers from George Washington University has found that communities of color face an increased risk of developing diseases associated with air pollution.

Disparities in Pediatric Asthma Rates

The study, published in 2024, reveals that communities of color are nearly eight times more likely to experience higher rates of pediatric asthma due to air pollutants. The research, which began in 2021 and continued until its publication this year, also highlights a significant increase in air pollutant-related diseases in these communities over the past decade.

Environmental Injustice

Dr. Gaige Kerr, senior research scientist at GWU’s Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, explains that many communities of color were disproportionately chosen to accommodate heavy industry or busy highways and interstates. This environmental injustice has resulted in these communities bearing a greater burden from air pollution compared to majority white communities.

Identified Pollutants

The study identifies two key pollutants: nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter. Nitrogen dioxide, a man-made chemical compound found in cars and trucks, irritates the lungs and triggers asthma attacks. Fine particulate matter, often associated with wildfires, contributes to heart disease, lung cancer, and strokes.

Health Impacts

In 2019 alone, fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide were linked to at least 49,000 premature deaths and nearly 115,000 new cases of pediatric asthma in the United States.

Community Advocacy

Sebrena Rhodes, ANC vice chair for Ward 5 and a resident of Ivy City, along with the D.C.-based group Empower D.C., are actively raising awareness about air pollutants in the district, particularly in communities of color. Rhodes emphasizes that breathing is a right and calls for action to address this issue.

Mitigation Tactics and Policy Recommendations

The researchers suggest implementing mitigation tactics such as installing air filters in houses and closing windows on polluted days. However, they stress the need for bold policies that invest in a larger electric vehicle fleet, more renewable energy sources, and expanded active and public transportation to tackle the root causes of air pollution.

Government Initiatives

D.C.’s Department of Energy and Environment acknowledges the importance of addressing air pollution and states its commitment to creating safe and healthy environments for all residents. The department is actively testing air quality and collaborating with the EPA to ensure the safety of District residents, including those in Ivy City. Additionally, the District government has committed to a major transition away from fossil fuel use over the next decade to improve air quality.

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 the following SDGs:
– SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
– SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
– SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

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 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
– 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.

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 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 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities.
– Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g. PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population weighted).

These indicators can be used to measure progress towards reducing deaths and illnesses from air pollution, promoting social inclusion, and improving air quality in cities.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: nbcwashington.com

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