August M
Millions of children across the United States are growing up in areas with unhealthy air.
A new report warns the situation could worsen as environmental protections are scaled back, reports The Guardian.
Widespread exposure
Almost half of all children in the US are breathing polluted air at harmful levels.
According to The Guardian, citing the American Lung Association’s latest report, around 33.5 million children live in areas that failed at least one measure of air quality.
The study assessed pollution data between 2022 and 2024, focusing on smog and particle pollution.
It also found that about 7 million children live in areas that failed all three pollution measures.
Health risks rise
Experts say children are especially vulnerable to polluted air.
“Children’s lungs are still developing. For their body size, they’re breathing more air. And also, kids play outdoors, they’re more active, they’re breathing in more outdoor air … So, air pollution exposure in children can contribute to long-term developmental harm to their lungs, new cases of asthma, increased risks of respiratory illness and other health considerations later in life,” said Will Barrett of the American Lung Association.
According to The Guardian, these risks include long-term lung damage and increased likelihood of chronic illness.
Inequality concerns
The report highlights disparities in exposure among different communities.
According to The Guardian, people of color are significantly more likely to live in areas with poor air quality.
Although they make up just over 42% of the population, they account for more than half of those living in highly polluted areas.
They are also more likely to face existing health conditions that worsen the impact of pollution.
Causes of pollution
Smog remains the most widespread air pollutant affecting Americans.
According to The Guardian, around 129 million people were exposed to unhealthy ozone levels, the highest figure in six years.
Factors such as extreme heat, drought and wildfires have contributed to rising pollution levels.
Climate change is also intensifying conditions that allow pollutants to build up.
Policy concerns
Experts warn that recent policy changes could make the situation worse.
According to The Guardian, the Trump administration has rolled back numerous environmental protections, including limits on emissions and air quality standards.
“There’s a devaluing of children’s health by this EPA as they are weakening, delaying and repealing critical health protection,” Barrett said.
Advocates say these changes may increase pollution risks in the coming years.
Growing pressures
The report also points to emerging sources of pollution, including data centres.
According to The Guardian, these facilities are consuming increasing amounts of electricity, often relying on fossil fuels.
Backup generators used by such sites can also release harmful emissions.
As demand grows, experts say cleaner energy solutions will be essential to limit further impact.
Sources: The Guardian
