Air Quality
Articles tagged with Air Quality
Combined short-term effects of air pollutants linked to 146,500 premature deaths per year in Europe
Heavy air pollution is linked to worse post-surgical outcomes
Research finds association between high air pollution and increased risk of post-surgical complications, including sepsis, pneumonia, and surgical wound infection. Higher levels of PM2.5 air pollution above EPA daily limits increase risk by 8%.
Air pollution exposure in the womb linked to worse language and motor development
A study by King's College London found that babies exposed to high levels of air pollution in the womb show slower signs of development at 18 months compared to those exposed to lower levels. This is particularly true for premature babies, who experience poorer motor and language skills.
New research reveals that cutting emissions is not the only way to save lives from air pollution
Global air pollution mortality rates decreased by 45% between 1990 and 2019, with 52% of the decrease attributed to reduced vulnerability, such as improved healthcare access and poverty reduction. Integrating healthcare improvements into air quality strategies is crucial for protecting vulnerable populations.
Texas A&M team develops faster, more accurate test for airborne chemical risk to human lungs
A multidisciplinary research team at Texas A&M University has developed a faster and more accurate test for determining the risks of airborne chemicals to human lungs. The study uses lab-grown lung cell models and found that common pollutants like acrolein and formic acid can damage respiratory barriers.
What's driving Salt Lake City's downward emissions trends?
Emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO) in Salt Lake City have declined significantly over the past two decades, driven by improved vehicle technology and emission standards. Meanwhile, levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), a major contributor to climate change, have remained relatively steady.
Introducing environmental microbiota to urban homes shifts the indoor microbiome
A new study introduces a simple intervention of introducing forest soil on an entryway doormat, which shifted the indoor microbiome of Finnish homes closer to bacterial profiles found outdoors. This could lead to health promotion, especially in urban settings, by reducing encounters with environmental microbes linked to inflammatory di...
Air pollution alerts deliver big health benefits for Chinese cities
A new study finds that air pollution alerts issued in China's cities significantly reduce PM2.5 levels and prevent nearly 54,000 premature deaths over a five-year period. The alerts trigger short-term actions to limit pollution, resulting in a 30-40% reduction in acute mortality risk due to PM2.5.
Living in historically redlined neighborhoods may reduce one’s ability to conceive
Two studies led by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that people living in redlined neighborhoods were less likely to conceive than those in favorable areas. The findings suggest that historical practices like redlining continue to influence reproductive health disparities in present-day communities of color.
Belt-like VO₂(b) single crystals unlock high-sensitivity gas detection at room temperature
Researchers have synthesized belt-like VO₂(b) single crystals with high sensitivity to ethanol at room temperature. The crystals' unique surface structure strongly adsorbs ethanol molecules, promoting efficient charge transfer and exceptional sensing performance.
Big and small dogs both impact indoor air quality, just differently
A study by the American Chemical Society found that small active dogs produce more airborne particles, while larger dogs release more microbes into the air. The research suggests that dogs can impact household air quality at a level similar to or more than humans, and highlights the importance of including pet emissions in ventilation ...
Improving indoor environment reduces asthma attacks in adults, study finds
A large survey of Texas adults with asthma found that improving airflow, using air purifiers, and minimizing allergens can significantly reduce asthma attacks. The study also highlights disparities in asthma burden among certain groups, including women, older adults, and Black adults.
The giant fire tornado that could save our oceans
Researchers have developed a new method for cleaning oil spills using massive fire whirls, which can burn through crude oil nearly twice as fast as in-situ fire pools. The results show that fire whirls produce 40% less soot and consume up to 95% of the fuel, leaving fewer harmful particles behind.
New study assesses potential dust control options for Great Salt Lake
A new collaborative study evaluates potential dust control measures for the Great Salt Lake, considering effectiveness, cost, water demand, maintenance needs, and ecological impacts. The analysis emphasizes the importance of long-term planning, sustained maintenance, and careful consideration of unintended consequences.
Housing conditions and outdoor air pollution together affect children’s asthma risk, new ECHO study shows
A new study found that children growing up in homes with water damage and exposed to high levels of outdoor air pollution have a greater risk of developing asthma. The study also revealed that having a dog during infancy can reduce the risk of asthma in children.
Secondhand vape plumes could form lung-damaging radicals
Researchers found that aged vape plumes in indoor environments contain fine particles with metals and highly reactive compounds, producing radicals that might damage lung tissue if inhaled. Repeated exposure to these plumes could negatively impact lung health, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions.
A global strategy is needed to reduce ozone levels
A global strategy is required to address the issue of reduced ozone decline despite decreased emissions of precursor pollutants in North America and Europe. The study found that increased transport of ozone from abroad is the main driver of the weaker-than-expected decline of ozone levels.
New tool tracks cross-border pollution, revealing unequal distribution of risk, responsibility
A new study provides a tool to quantify responsibility for PM 2.5 pollution, highlighting the impact of cross-state pollution on public health. The research highlights inequality in pollution across US states, with some facing disproportionate health risks and responsibilities.
Air frying fatty food better for air quality than alternatives – if you clean it, study says
A new study from the University of Birmingham found that air frying fatty foods produces fewer VOCs and ultra-fine particles compared to other cooking methods. However, repeated use without cleaning can negate some benefits for indoor air quality.
Wood burning in homes drives dangerous air pollution in winter
Residential wood burning accounts for over one-fifth of wintertime exposure to outdoor fine particulate matter, linked to increased risks of heart disease and premature death. By reducing indoor wood burning, Americans could decrease outdoor air pollution and save thousands of lives.
Adoption of electric vehicles tied to real-world reductions in air pollution, study finds
A new study using satellite data confirms that California's shift to electric vehicles is making measurable differences in air quality and public health. For every 200 ZEVs added, nitrogen dioxide levels dropped 1.1%.
Measuring movement creates new way to map indoor air pollution
Researchers developed a new way of measuring indoor air pollution by analyzing human movement, showing elevated levels of pollutants during occupied periods. The study provides a new approach to designing healthier indoor spaces, combining Birmingham's air-pollution expertise with radar-based sensing and optimization techniques.
Prenatal and early-life pollution exposures may influence childhood blood pressure patterns, ECHO study finds
A new study from the ECHO Program found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) before and after birth may influence childhood blood pressure patterns. High blood pressure in children is a growing concern worldwide, with nearly 80% increase over two decades.
Research details significant air quality benefits from NYC congestion pricing
A recent study by Cornell University found that NYC congestion pricing has led to significant air quality benefits, including a 22% reduction in particulate matter 2.5 micrometers in the Congestion Relief Zone, as well as declines across the city's five boroughs and surrounding suburbs.
Air pollution linked to more severe heart disease
A large-scale study of over 11,000 adults found that even low-level air pollution is associated with advanced coronary artery disease, often before symptoms appear. Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide was linked to higher calcium scores and more severe narrowing of the arteries in both men and women.
Between Earth and Sky: Sea salt plays key role in Metro Manila air pollution
Researchers found that sea salt particles interact with urban pollution, chemically reacting to form toxic compounds. After the COVID-19 lockdown, reduced pollution allowed more naturally occurring sea salt components to persist, offering potential implications for human health and climate.
Cheaper cars pollute more than expensive cars, leading to emissions inequality
Research by University of Birmingham scientists reveals that lower-income individuals are more likely to own cheaper, higher-emitting vehicles contributing disproportionately to local urban air pollution. Spending an additional £10,000 on a diesel vehicle is associated with a 40% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions per litre.
Advanced flight emissions calculator built by Surrey shows the real cost of flying
The ATP-DEC calculator provides accurate and transparent information on carbon disclosure, helping align aviation with climate targets. It captures real-world variations and life cycle emissions, making it a crucial tool for policymakers, airlines, and passengers.
UK Capital's ULEZ quickly cut air pollution —high vehicle compliance may have left little room for further gains after expansion
A study published in npj Clean Air found significant reductions in NO2 and NOx pollution following the introduction of ULEZ in 2019. The team also found that the benefits extended beyond the designated zone, indicating a wider spill-over effect.
Health and economic air quality co-benefits of stringent climate policies
A new study reveals that limiting temperature overshoot can prevent hundreds of thousands of premature deaths while avoiding trillions of dollars in economic damages. The research found significant health benefits by improving air quality, particularly in regions with high population density.
Leopoldina and Stifterverband honor atmospheric researcher Johannes Lelieveld with the 2024 Carl-Friedrich-von-Weizsäcker-Prize
Johannes Lelieveld's research on air quality, emissions, and climate change has demonstrated the interconnectedness of these issues. His work provides new insights into human health risks and informs policy decisions to address pressing societal challenges.
Unveiling the impact of compound drought and wildfire events on PM2.5 air pollution in the era of climate change
Researchers found a strong link between compound droughts and wildfires in California, leading to increased fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. The study shows that severe droughts can substantially raise wildfire risk, with PM2.5 levels increasing by 9.5·m³ under extreme conditions.
Researchers discover air pollution particles hitching a ride around the body on red blood cells
Researchers found tiny air pollution particles sticking to red blood cells after exposure to roadside pollution, which can travel to organs like brain and heart. Wearing an FFP2 face mask reduces the amount of particles stuck to red blood cells.
Sunlight worsens wildfire smoke pollution, study finds
A new study reveals that wildfire smoke particles act like tiny chemical factories under sunlight, generating peroxides and other pollutants. This overlooked chemistry means current models are underestimating the impact of wildfires on air quality and climate.
Frequent wildfires, heat intensify air quality issues in American megacities such as New York City
Research from Colorado State University reveals how wildfire smoke combines with existing particulate pollution to create secondary, often more toxic, pollution and contribute to ozone formation. The study found that 90% of aerosol pollution over NYC is sensitive to at least one aspect of global changes, such as high temperatures.
Higher levels of air pollution linked to worsening of sleep apnea
A multi-national study found that higher levels of air pollution are linked to worse symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in European patients. The study revealed a modest but measurable increase in the apnoea hypopnea index (AHI) for every one unit increase in PM10 concentration.
Eating fruit may reduce the effects of air pollution on lung function
Research presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress found that a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables can partially mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution on lung function. Women who consumed four portions of fruit per day or more appeared to have smaller reductions in lung function associated with air pollution.
Air pollution is harming children’s eyesight - study
Exposure to lower levels of air pollutants is associated with improved vision in children, suggesting that reducing exposure could slow the progression of myopia. Children who live in areas with cleaner air have better vision, especially younger students.
Engineers uncover why tiny particles form clusters in turbulent air
A new study reveals that small electric charges between particles play a crucial role in forming highly concentrated clusters in turbulent environments. This discovery has significant implications for climate research, medicine, engineering, and science, enabling better predictions and controls.
As pesticides and wildfires rise, kids with cancer need resources
A growing body of research links environmental pollutants to worsened health and shorter life spans in childhood cancer survivors. The study found that only 25% of pediatric oncology providers felt comfortable discussing environmental pollutant impacts with patients.
Federally funded study is first to link pesticides and death in kids
A federally funded study found children with leukemia who were exposed to pesticides during their mother's pregnancy had a higher risk of death. The study, published in Cancers, examined over 800 children and showed pesticide exposure increased child mortality by up to 60%.
Cities face double trouble: Extreme heat and air pollution cause increasing compound weather events
Compound heat and air pollution episodes are becoming more frequent and intense in US cities, posing a significant threat to public health. The study found that urban areas experience more frequent overlaps of extreme heat with harmful air pollutants than surrounding rural areas.
US oil and gas air pollution causes unequal health impacts
A major new study quantifies the health impacts of outdoor air pollution from US oil and gas activities, revealing widespread disparities in exposure and health burden across racial and ethnic groups. The research estimates 91,000 premature deaths annually, with Black, Asian, Native American, and Hispanic populations most affected.
Industrial pollution’s imprint lasts generations
Researchers found a strong correlation between industrial pollution exposure during pregnancy and the risk of intellectual disabilities in grandchildren. A study using Utah Population Database data revealed that grandmothers' prenatal exposures can increase the risk of intellectual disabilities in their grandchildren's children.
Mortality associated with fine particles from wildfires may be underestimated by 93%
A new study suggests that exposure to wildfire-derived PM2.5 is linked to increased mortality and morbidity, with a 93% underestimation of the actual death toll. The research estimated 535 annual deaths from all causes due to short-term exposure to wildfire smoke.
Wildfire collaborative responds to community concerns about air quality
A recent study analyzed hourly data from nearly 750 low-cost and regulatory air pollution sensors throughout LA to understand the impact of wildfires on air quality. The findings suggest that combining different data sources, including ground-based sensors and satellite data, can provide more accurate and comprehensive information.
Public data reveal extent of air quality impacts during 2025 Los Angeles wildfires
Combining federal monitors, low-cost sensors, and satellite data can provide a more complete picture of local air quality, enabling people to make safer choices in real-time. The study highlights the importance of timely and accurate air quality information during wildfire events.
Air purifiers may reduce heart risks for people exposed to traffic pollution
A new study published in JACC found that using portable HEPA air filters at home can significantly lower systolic blood pressure in adults with elevated readings. The study found an average 2.8 mmHg reduction in SBP after one month of HEPA filtration.
The health impact of wildfires in Los Angeles County and Maui
Research shows that the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires resulted in an estimated 440 excess deaths, while the 2023 Maui wildfires led to immediate increases in suicide and overdose deaths. Higher social support was linked to improved mental health outcomes but did not buffer physiological effects.
Chung-Ang University researchers develop innovative air filter inspired by nasal hair
A team of researchers from Chung-Ang University has developed an innovative air filter that mimics the way mucus-coated nasal hairs trap particles, achieving remarkable filtration efficiency. The particle-removing oil-coated (PRO) filter is a significant leap forward in air purification, offering improved performance and sustainability.
Polymer coating extends half life of MXene-based air quality sensor by 200% and enables regeneration
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a low-cost, long-lasting indoor formaldehyde sensor with a unique polymer coating. The coating extends the sensor's half-life by 200% and enables it to regenerate when performance degrades.
Cleaner East Asian air unmasks a much hotter planet
A new study finds that cleaner air in East Asia, particularly China, has contributed to the recent acceleration in global warming. The region's aerosol reductions account for most of the observed warming since 2010, even after accounting for natural fluctuation events.
Are sewage spills and coastal winds contributing to airborne microplastics?
Researchers found that sewage spills from land to sea coincided with winds of at least 6.5m/s on 178 days within a two-year period, potentially sending microplastics into the air. The study suggests that coastal towns and cities may be exposed to billions of airborne microplastic particles.
A Journal of Environmental Sciences study investigates trees best suited for cities
Researchers used a data-driven approach to filter out ideal tree species for urban forests, mapping carbon stock and biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) emissions of six dominant urban tree species in Beijing. The study identified two optimal species: Betula platyphylla for high-altitude areas and Robinia pseudoacacia for urban...
Exposure to air pollution may cause heart damage
Research using cardiac MRI found that long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with early signs of heart damage, including diffuse myocardial fibrosis. The study suggests that fine particulate matter in the air may contribute to changes in the heart structure, potentially setting the stage for future cardiovascular disease.
Climate change will likely make prescribed fires rarer – but increase their air quality impacts
Prescribed burns contribute to significant air pollution in the southeast, particularly in minority and low-income areas. Climate change may exacerbate these impacts as fewer burn days become available.
A California dairy tried to capture its methane. It worked
A new study from the University of California, Riverside shows that sealing manure ponds at a Central Valley farm can dramatically reduce atmospheric methane emissions. The researchers found that this method can achieve an 80% reduction in emissions, comparable to California state officials' climate planning estimates.
Desert dust forming air pollution, new study reveals
Aged desert dust particles have been found to facilitate the formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOA), a major component of airborne particles, in dusty areas. This finding challenges conventional wisdom and could account for up to two thirds of SOA in such regions.
Nationwide study finds that leaks in natural gas pipelines contribute to hazardous particulate air pollution
A nationwide study reveals that methane leaks from energy-intensive states like Texas lower air quality for people in neighboring states. Strong environmental regulations are shown to reduce hazardous gas leaks and improve safety.