The American Lung Association's 25th annual "State of the Air" report has revealed concerning findings about air pollution levels in Utah. According to Nick Torres, Advocacy Director for the American Lung Association, "Salt Lake City is listed as one of the worst places for ozone pollution."
The report indicates that the Salt Lake metro area ranked 9th worst in the nation for ozone pollution, with Salt Lake County averaging 24 unhealthy days per year, receiving an F grade. Additionally, the area ranked 19th worst for short-term particle pollution, with 9.8 unhealthy days per year, also earning an F grade.
In terms of year-round particle pollution, Salt Lake County received a failing grade for levels above the federal standard, contributing to the Salt Lake City metro area's ranking as the 37th worst in the nation. However, there was a slight improvement from the previous year's ranking of 32nd worst.
On the other hand, St. George was highlighted as one of the nation's cleanest cities for year-round particle pollution, ranking 9th in the report.
The report emphasized the impact of air pollution on health, stating that both ozone and particle pollution can lead to premature death and serious health effects like asthma attacks, heart attacks, and lung cancer.
The Lung Association is calling on the EPA to establish stronger national limits on ozone pollution to address the challenges posed by climate change, with the hope of driving cleanup efforts and protecting public health.
The report also highlighted disparities in air pollution exposure, noting that communities of color are disproportionately affected and more likely to live with chronic conditions that make them vulnerable to air pollution.
As the EPA implements new air pollution rules to combat particle pollution and climate change, the American Lung Association continues to advocate for stricter regulations to safeguard public health and improve air quality nationwide.
