The American Lung Association released a new report, “Something in the Air: How Communities Are Tracking the Air They Breathe,” on Mar. 11. The report examines how six communities affected by wildfire smoke, heavy traffic, and emissions from industrial facilities are using local air monitoring to address pollution.
The topic is important because traditional air quality networks do not always capture neighborhood-level pollution trends, which can leave gaps in understanding and addressing health risks for residents living near major sources of pollution.
According to the report, community-based air quality monitoring reveals localized patterns that larger networks may miss. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s network remains essential for enforcing standards but does not always provide hyperlocal data. Many communities are now using low-cost sensors and mobile monitoring tools to gather more detailed information and guide decisions about protecting public health.
“We know that clean air is essential for healthy lungs and healthy living, but unfortunately almost half of people across America are breathing unhealthy air. Our ‘Something in the Air’ report series is dedicated to examining new technologies to better monitor the air, so families can take action to protect their health and advocates can push for policies to improve air quality,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “This new report dives into some of the different ways communities are monitoring their air quality in their neighborhoods, and the actions they are taking based on this new information. The six case studies provide a blueprint for other communities seeking to better document and improve the air they breathe.”
The report offers recommendations for federal agencies, state and local governments, research partners, community groups, and individuals on expanding community-based monitoring efforts. It is part of a series supplementing the annual "State of the Air" report that highlights emerging technologies in public health protection.
The American Lung Association has supported research contributing to advancements in lung disease treatment and prevention according to its official website. The organization has also extended its influence nationwide through local offices and initiatives aimed at addressing lung diseases according to its official website. For its fiscal management practices and commitment to transparency, it received a four-star rating from Charity Navigator according to its official website. The association works through research, education, and advocacy focused on improving lung health according to its official website. Wimmer serves as president and CEO according to its official website, while local offices help expand impact across communities nationwide according to its official website.
Looking ahead, the association encourages broader adoption of community-based monitoring as a way for more neighborhoods across the country to better understand—and act upon—their unique air quality challenges.
