New research reveals that New York City subway platforms have particulate pollution levels four times higher than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's safe limit, disproportionately affecting Black and Hispanic commuters.
Aliya Uteuova reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- A New York University study found that subway platforms in New York City expose commuters to PM2.5 levels four times higher than EPA guidelines, with even greater exposure for Black and Hispanic riders.
- The research identified a higher concentration of iron particles in the subway air due to train wheel, brake and rail wear, especially in older and poorly ventilated stations.
- Longer commutes for low-income workers increase exposure to pollutants, with Black and Hispanic commuters experiencing 35% and 23% higher levels than their white and Asian counterparts.
Key quote:
"At that size, these particles penetrate the lung, and it’s been shown that small particles cause issues with cardiovascular, respiratory and neurological diseases."
— Masoud Ghandehari, professor of urban systems engineering at New York University
Why this matters:
Subway air pollution poses a significant health risk, particularly to minority and low-income communities already burdened by environmental hazards.
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