California has significantly lowered harmful vehicle emissions, but people of color and those in overburdened communities continue to face higher exposure to dangerous air pollutants, according to new research.
Liza Gross reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- California has cut emissions by 65% over two decades, especially from vehicles, but exposure disparities persist for Black, Hispanic, and Asian communities.
- Overburdened areas, often near freeways or industrial zones, face the highest levels of PM2.5 pollution, despite statewide improvements.
- Researchers call for targeted policies to address these inequities and reduce pollution in the most affected neighborhoods.
Key quote:
“This new research project is an important contribution to understanding the disparate and disproportionate impacts that low-income people…are confronting in their everyday lives.”
— Michael Méndez, expert on environmental justice and policy at UC Irvine
Why this matters:
While California has made strides in air quality, marginalized communities remain at risk from vehicle emissions. Continued efforts are essential to ensure these populations also benefit from cleaner air.
Related: California needs a plan to phase out oil refineries
