WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2024
American Lung Association report examines the use of satellite-derived data to track unhealthy levels of particle pollution in areas without ground-based monitors
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Lung Association today released a new report, "Something in the Air: Bridging the Air Quality Data Gap with Satellite Technology," highlighting the potential for satellite-derived data to complement the existing U.S. air quality monitoring network. Focusing on fine particulate matter (PM2.5), one of the most harmful air pollutants to human health, this report emphasizes how emerging technologies, such as satellites, can help provide critical air quality information to underserved communities lacking official monitoring data.
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The report finds that while regulatory ground-based monitoring stations provide critical air quality data, many regions in the U.S. lack comprehensive coverage, particularly rural areas. In the 2024 "State of the Air" report, only 885 of the more than 3,000 U.S. counties had enough data to be graded for at least one pollutant. Satellite technology offers a valuable supplement to fill those gaps, delivering insight into the air quality in unmonitored areas.
"Communities without local air quality monitors may be facing dangerous levels of particle pollution without official data to point to in order to advocate for change. Satellite-derived data presents an exciting opportunity to augment the existing network of monitors and improve our understanding of air quality across the country. Our hope is that this results in more communities having valuable information about air quality levels so they can better protect their health," said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association.
Key Findings of the Report
This report focuses on fine particle pollution, which is a mix of tiny solid and liquid particles that are in the air we breathe and are 1/30th the diameter of a strand of human hair or smaller. Particle pollution comes from wildfires, wood-burning stoves, power plants, gasoline- and diesel-engines in cars and trucks, and other sources. These microscopic particles can trigger asthma attacks, heart attacks and strokes, can cause lung cancer and can even be deadly. According to the 2024 "State of the Air" report, 65 million people lived in monitored counties that experienced unhealthy spikes in particle pollution, the highest number in 14 years.
"Something in the Air: Bridging the Air Quality Data Gap with Satellite Technology" calls for various actions from EPA, states and individuals, including:
Read the full report at Lung.org/something-in-the-air.
The analysis of satellite-derived data was conducted by Dr. Tracey Holloway, Ms. Lizzy Kysela, and other members of the Holloway Group at the University of Wisconsin—Madison's Nelson Institute Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment (SAGE).
About the American Lung AssociationThe American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.
This year, the American Lung Association is celebrating 120 years! Join us in our journey to champion lung health and help us celebrate 120 Years of Impact. Donate today at Lung.org/donate.
CONTACT: Jill Dale | American Lung AssociationP: 312-940-7001E: [email protected]
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SOURCE American Lung Association
