An article today mentions that 186.1 million people live in communities with dangerously high levels of air pollution. That's greater than 50% of the US population, so odds are, it's probably you.
Cleanest city overall? Fargo, ND -- the only city to pass in all three categories: ozone pollution, year round particle pollution and short-term particle pollution. But who lives in Fargo anyway?
Dirtiest city? Los Angeles! It has held it's number one spot for the past 10 years. Gross.
Other dirty cities for ozone: Bakersfield, Calif.; Visalia-Porterville, Calif.; Pittsburgh-New Castle, Pa.; and Fresno-Madera, Calif.
Air pollution can have serious affects -- one study showed that live expectancy increased in 51 cities by 5 months (!!) between 1980-2000 due to air pollition reductions.
The article suggests aiding the cause by using less electricity, drive less, avoid burning wood or trash and push for clean-up of old diesel bus fleets in their communities. You can also plant some trees and increase the green space around your home.
Check out the State of the Air at: American Lung Association
FYI - Fulton County, GA get's a big ole F. Not surprising given the traffic in Atlanta but still disappointing.
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