The American Lung Association’s 25th annual “State of the Air” report has shed light on the challenging air pollution issues faced by Oregon. Carrie Nyssen, Senior Director of Advocacy for the American Lung Association, expressed concern over the persisting problem, stating, “In the 25 years that the American Lung Association has been doing our ‘State of the Air’ report, we have seen incredible improvement in our nation’s air quality. Unfortunately, more than 131 million people still live in places with unhealthy levels of air pollution, and Oregon struggles with particle pollution levels.”
Nyssen also highlighted the impact of climate change on air pollution, emphasizing the need for immediate action, “Climate change is making air pollution more likely to form and more difficult to clean up, so there are actions we can and must take to improve air quality. We are also calling on EPA to set long-overdue stronger national limits on ozone pollution.”
The report assessed the levels of ozone “smog” and particle pollution in different areas. In the Portland metro area, ozone pollution ranked 58th worst in the nation, with Clackamas County receiving a D grade for an average of 2.2 unhealthy days per year. Short-term particle pollution in the same area led to a ranking of 21st worst in the nation, with an average of 7.8 unhealthy days per year.
Moving to the Medford-Grants Pass metro area, ozone pollution was ranked 79th worst in the nation, receiving a C grade. The area also struggled with short-term particle pollution, ranking 29th worst in the nation with 6.8 unhealthy days per year. The year-round average level of particle pollution in this region exceeded federal standards, leading to a failing grade and a ranking of 8th worst in the nation.
The report highlighted the severe health effects of both ozone and particle pollution, including premature death, asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, and lung cancer. The disproportionate impact on communities of color was also emphasized, with individuals in these communities being more vulnerable to the health risks associated with air pollution.
In response to these findings, the American Lung Association is urging the EPA to implement stronger national limits on ozone pollution to protect public health and drive pollution cleanup efforts nationwide. The recent finalization of new air pollution rules by the EPA is seen as a step in the right direction, but further action is needed to address the critical issue of air quality.
To support the mission of the American Lung Association and learn more about the “State of the Air” report, individuals can visit Lung.org/SOTA and sign the petition. Additionally, an upcoming event, Reach the Beach in Portland on May 18th, provides an opportunity for community involvement in addressing air pollution challenges.
