Short Wave The Pandemic Cut Down Car Traffic. Why Not Air Pollution?
May 28, 2020
Air quality during the pandemic painted an unexpected picture. Despite reduced car traffic, the drop in air pollutants was surprisingly minimal. Discussions reveal how industrial pollution, particularly from trucks and power plants, plays a significant role in air quality issues. The conversation dives into the health impacts of ozone as a key pollutant. Reflecting on regulatory responses, the hosts emphasize the need for more stringent measures to truly tackle air pollution challenges.
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Initial Pandemic Observations
- During the beginning of the pandemic, cities reported less air pollution and wild animals roamed unexpectedly.
- Traffic dropped by about 40 percent in mid-March leading many to believe the air was cleaner.
Pandemic Air Quality Analysis
- An NPR analysis revealed that ozone pollution only decreased by 15 percent or less in most areas despite reduced traffic.
- In many places, the air quality barely improved.
Los Angeles Air Quality
- While Los Angeles experienced its longest stretch of clean air in decades, this was partially due to rain.
- Cars are not the biggest source of pollution in many U.S. cities, including L.A.