Sanford community among worst air quality in state, experts call it ’cause for concern’
EPA: Sanford community among worst air quality in state, experts call it 'cause for concern' WTVD-TV
sdgtalks
Sustainable Development Goals and Air Quality in Sanford, NC
Introduction
You’d expect to see open windows on a breezy spring day, but at Terry Petty’s home in Sanford, N.C., that’s not an option. Petty, 63, is proud to live in Kendall Acres, a close-knit community where she has resided for over 30 years. However, the air quality in the area poses significant challenges to the residents.
Concerns about Air Quality
“The air is so dry,” said Petty. “Most of us keep our windows closed 95 percent of the time.” She is cautious about exposing her 2-year-old nephew Kyrie to the outdoors due to concerns about his skin becoming dry. Additionally, many residents in Kendall Acres experience respiratory issues such as asthma and COPD, even among non-smokers.
Environmental Protection Agency Data
Data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reveals that several communities in Sanford, including Kendall Acres, Jonesboro Heights, Courtland Acres, and Brookhaven, have some of the worst air quality in the state. These communities rank in the 97th percentile in the air toxics respiratory hazard index.
Impact on Communities of Color and Low-Income Individuals
The affected communities in Sanford predominantly consist of people of color and low-income individuals. According to additional data from the CDC, 1 in 10 adults living in these areas have asthma. Ann Locklear, a resident who moved to the community decades ago, now suffers from asthma and relies on an inhaler for relief.
Efforts to Raise Awareness
Petty and Locklear, determined to address the air quality issues, have taken it upon themselves to alert the town and their neighbors. They believe that raising awareness is crucial in initiating change. Petty confidently states, “You know what? I don’t have to alert them because as soon as they see me, they will want to know why Channel 11 News was here. It’s on because they already know.”
Conclusion
The poor air quality in Sanford, N.C., particularly in communities like Kendall Acres, highlights the urgent need for action to improve the situation. Addressing these environmental challenges aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By prioritizing these goals, policymakers and stakeholders can work towards creating a healthier and more equitable environment for all residents.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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
- SDG 15: Life on Land
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 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.
- SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
- SDG 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Air toxics respiratory hazard index: This indicator measures the level of air pollution and its potential impact on respiratory health.
- Presence of asthma: The prevalence of asthma in the community can be used as an indicator of the health impacts of air pollution.
Table: 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. | Air toxics respiratory hazard index |
| 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. | Air toxics respiratory hazard index |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning. | N/A |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services. | N/A |
Note: The article does not explicitly mention indicators for SDG 13 and SDG 15.
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: abc11.com
Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.
