Jan 29, 2025 - News
Pollution rises
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Air quality is worsening in Metro Detroit, according to year-over-year EPA data.
By the numbers: Nationally, 62% of metro areas improved their air quality in 2021-23, compared with 2014-16, as measured by fine particle pollution.
- Our region, however, saw a more than 8% increase in air pollution in that time period.
- For comparison — the Ann Arbor area saw just a 3.3% increase in air pollution.
- Detroit continues to see disproportionate impacts of air pollution due to industry and transportation, per Planet Detroit. Exposure can cause asthma and in some cases premature death, according to U of M.
To stay safe, air quality experts recommend checking your local air quality index score.
- If air quality is unhealthy, spend less time outdoors, keep windows and doors closed and consider wearing a mask when outside, according to the American Lung Association.