The American Lung Association has published a report titled “Something in the Air: Nitrogen Dioxide and Community Health,” which explores the potential of satellite data to assess the health effects of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). This pollutant is common but often under-monitored and insufficiently regulated. The report emphasizes the need for enhanced monitoring and protective measures, especially in areas near highways, industrial sites, and other high-emission sources where NO₂ levels are highest.
The findings indicate that NO₂ pollution disproportionately affects certain groups, notably low-income communities and communities of color. Satellite-derived data can offer a more precise view of NO₂ exposure disparities at the neighborhood level.
“Nitrogen dioxide is a dangerous pollutant and a particularly difficult one to monitor. Through this new report, we are finding that people in one neighborhood may have little exposure to NO₂, while families in a neighboring community may be significantly impacted by NO₂ pollution,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “This is why the use of satellite data is critical because it provides a more detailed picture of who may be impacted. This is also an important tool to highlight the urgent need for stronger air quality standards and more comprehensive monitoring to protect families across the U.S.”
The report details how NO₂ forms when fossil fuels like coal, oil, methane gas (natural gas), or diesel are burned at high temperatures. It contributes to chemical reactions that produce ozone and particle pollution. There are national air quality standards aimed at limiting these pollutants due to their harmful effects on health.
In response to these findings, the Lung Association advocates for stricter national limits on NO₂ emissions, further research into its health impacts, and increased monitoring efforts to identify pollution hotspots better protect vulnerable communities. More information about this report can be found at Lung.org/something-in-the-air.
“Something in the Air: Nitrogen Dioxide and Community Health” is part of a series designed to enhance air quality monitoring through emerging technologies. The initial report in this series was released in October 2024.
