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.
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.