How did Mississippi counties do on the 2024 air pollution report? Find out here
Hinds, Forrest MS counties receive failing air pollution grade Clarion Ledger
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Jackson’s Air Quality and Sustainable Development Goals
According to the American Lung Association’s 2024 “State of the Air” report, Jackson ranked as the 29th worst city in the nation for air quality for the second consecutive year. The city received a failing grade in the report, with its year-round particle pollution being the second worst in the Southeast. However, Jackson performed well in terms of ozone pollution rankings, with Hinds County receiving an A rating due to having zero unhealthy days. These findings highlight the importance of addressing air pollution in Jackson to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The State of the Air Report
The annual State of the Air report measures air pollution in U.S. counties. The 25th edition of the report, which utilized data from 2020-2022, focuses on two main factors: ozone pollution and particle pollution. Ozone pollution, also known as “smog,” affects a large number of Americans each year and can have detrimental effects on human health. Particle pollution refers to harmful solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air. Both types of pollution can lead to various health issues, including asthma, heart attacks, strokes, impaired cognitive functioning, preterm births, and even lung cancer.
Disparities and Vulnerability
Historically, the State of the Air reports have shown that people of color are disproportionately affected by air pollution. This year’s report reaffirms these findings, revealing that a person of color in the U.S. is more than twice as likely to live in a county with a failing air pollution grade. These disparities can be attributed to an imbalance of resources, leaving certain communities more vulnerable to chronic conditions such as asthma, heart disease, and diabetes.
Air Quality in Mississippi Counties
In Mississippi, several counties received failing grades for particle pollution, including Hinds County, Forrest County, and Harrison County. On the other hand, Bolivar County, DeSoto County, Hancock County, and Jackson County received passing grades. These results emphasize the need for targeted efforts to improve air quality in the state.
Taking Action
Individuals can contribute to improving air quality by adopting sustainable practices such as walking, carpooling, or biking instead of using individual cars. Avoiding outdoor burning of materials is also recommended. However, the most significant changes can be achieved at a structural level. Advocates are calling on the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish stronger national limits on ozone pollution. Readers are encouraged to sign a petition on the American Lung Association’s website to support stricter limits across the nation.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| 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 not mentioned in the article |
| 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 not mentioned in the article |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning | Indicator not mentioned in the article |
| SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships | Indicator not mentioned in the article |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
The issue of air pollution and its impact on human health is connected to SDG 3, which aims to ensure good health and well-being for all.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
The issue of air pollution in cities, as discussed in the article, is connected to SDG 11, which focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities.
SDG 13: Climate Action
The issue of air pollution and its contribution to climate change is connected to SDG 13, which aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The article mentions the need for partnerships and collaboration to address air pollution and improve air quality, which is connected to SDG 17, which emphasizes the importance of partnerships for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
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
The article highlights the negative health impacts of air pollution, such as asthma, heart attacks, strokes, impaired cognitive functioning, and preterm births. Target 3.9 specifically addresses the reduction of deaths and illnesses caused by air pollution.
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
The article discusses the air pollution levels in cities, particularly in Jackson, and emphasizes the need to pay attention to air quality in urban areas. Target 11.6 focuses on reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality.
Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
The article mentions the contribution of air pollution to climate change. Target 13.2 calls for the integration of climate change measures into national policies and planning, which includes addressing air pollution as a contributor to climate change.
Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships
The article highlights the need for partnerships and collaboration to address air pollution and improve air quality. Target 17.17 emphasizes the importance of partnerships in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
No, the article does not mention or imply any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| 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 not mentioned in the article |
| 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 not mentioned in the article |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning | Indicator not mentioned in the article |
| SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships | Indicator not mentioned in the article |
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: clarionledger.com
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