Air Pollution in the U.S.: New ALA Report Highlights Growing Concerns
The American Lung Association (ALA) has released its 2025 “State of the Air” report, indicating a troubling rise in air pollution levels across the United States. This report emerges amidst promises from U.S. President Donald Trump, who vowed to deliver the “cleanest air” post-2024 election victory, despite actions that demonstrate a stark contrast to those commitments.
Key Findings from the Report
According to the ALA’s findings, approximately 156 million Americans—almost half of the U.S. population—reside in areas afflicted by hazardous ozone or particulate pollution from 2021 to 2023. This marks an increase of 25 million people compared to previous data.
- The rise in affected populations has been attributed primarily to extreme heat and wildfires, exacerbated by the ongoing climate crisis.
- The report noted the highest recorded number of days with unhealthy levels of particle pollution in the past 26 years, particularly during the summer of 2023 when Canadian wildfire smoke worsened air quality in various states.
Regions Most Affected
Areas experiencing the worst short-term particle pollution include:
- Bakersfield-Delano, California
- Fairbanks-College, Alaska
- Eugene-Springfield, Oregon
For ozone pollution, the hardest-hit regions are:
- Los Angeles-Long Beach, California
- Visalia, California
- Phoenix-Mesa, Arizona
Health Implications
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the ALA, emphasized the daily health challenges faced by families across the nation due to air pollution. Notably:
- Air quality issues are linked to increased asthma attacks among children.
- Outdoor workers are experiencing heightened health risks.
- Low birth weights in infants are also connected to pollution exposure.
Wimmer criticized the ongoing degradation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which has historically played a critical role in air quality management. “Efforts to slash staff, funding, and programs at EPA are leaving families even more vulnerable to harmful air pollution. We need to protect the EPA,” Wimmer stated.
Policy Changes under the Trump Administration
The report arrives as the Trump administration continues to implement policies that undermine environmental protections. Recent actions include:
- Termination notices issued to EPA employees, particularly affecting environmental justice divisions.
- A concerning proposal to dismantle the agency’s scientific research capabilities, which experts warn would hinder necessary clean air and water initiatives.
Adding to the situation, Trump recently signed executive orders aimed at revitalizing the coal industry, a major source of air pollution. Sierra Club Executive Director Ben Jealous remarked, “Coal kills. Forcing coal plants to stay online will cost Americans more, lead to greater health problems, and result in premature deaths. Donald Trump’s plan is as despicable as it is reckless.”
Conclusion
The findings of the ALA’s report serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by air pollution in the United States, particularly as policy decisions continue to favor fossil fuel industries over environmental health. As air quality deteriorates, the health impacts on communities across the U.S. are becoming increasingly evident, necessitating urgent attention and action.
