The American Lung Association has released a report titled “Something in the Air: Bridging the Air Quality Data Gap with Satellite Technology.” This document discusses the potential of satellite-derived data to enhance the current U.S. air quality monitoring network, particularly for fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is known to be harmful to human health.
The report highlights that while ground-based monitoring stations provide essential air quality data, many regions in the United States, especially rural areas, lack comprehensive coverage. According to the 2024 “State of the Air” report, only 885 out of over 3,000 U.S. counties had sufficient data for at least one pollutant. Satellite technology could help address these gaps by providing insights into air quality in areas without existing monitors.
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, stated: “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.”
The report focuses on fine particle pollution, consisting of tiny solid and liquid particles found in the air we breathe. These particles are produced by sources such as wildfires, wood-burning stoves, power plants, and vehicles. They can trigger asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, cause lung cancer and even be fatal. The 2024 “State of the Air” report indicates that 65 million people lived in monitored counties experiencing unhealthy spikes in particle pollution—the highest number recorded in 14 years.
“Something in the Air: Bridging the Air Quality Data Gap with Satellite Technology” calls for action from various entities including EPA and state governments.
For further details on this topic, readers can access the full report at Lung.org/something-in-the-air.
The analysis involving satellite-derived data was conducted by Dr. Tracey Holloway, Ms. Lizzy Kysela, and other members from Holloway Group at University of Wisconsin—Madison’s Nelson Institute Center for Sustainability and Global Environment (SAGE).
