American Lung Association report highlights varied air quality
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United States: The American Lung Association released its annual State of the Air report this week, using EPA monitoring data from 2022–2024 to grade counties and metropolitan areas on ozone and particle pollution. The report lists multiple metros with failing grades — including areas around Indianapolis, San Diego County, and Jefferson County — while some Pacific Northwest counties received high ozone marks. The report's findings prompted immediate local reactions and public-health concern this week: ALA officials cited sources such as vehicle emissions, coal-fired plants and wildfire smoke; San Diego climbed into the top 10 worst metros for particle pollution year-round; Jefferson County recorded six unhealthy air days per year; communities with high rankings face calls for mitigation and expanded monitoring.
Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- EPA collected ozone and particle monitoring data during 2022–2024.
- The American Lung Association compiled those three years into its annual State of the Air report.
- National and local outlets published regional results, highlighting failing and high-performing communities this week.
- Local officials and ALA representatives issued statements about pollution sources and health impacts.
- Communities and policymakers began discussing monitoring expansions and mitigation steps following the report.
Why This Matters to You
Air quality directly impacts your health. Poor air quality can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma and increase heart disease risk. If you live in a failing area, limit outdoor activities on high pollution days. Check your local air quality index regularly.
The Bottom Line
Air pollution is a serious issue, with many US metros failing in the American Lung Association's report. It's not just an environmental concern, but a public health one too. Worth forwarding if you know someone living in a failing area. They might need to take precautions.
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Public health organizations, clean-energy firms, and local policymakers benefit by receiving up-to-date, locality-specific data to support mitigation funding, regulatory actions, and community outreach to reduce pollution exposures.
Residents in counties receiving failing grades — particularly children, seniors and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions — suffered higher exposure to ozone and particle pollution and associated health risks during 2022–2024.
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American Lung Association report highlights varied air quality
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