Despite California’s reputation for stringent clean-air regulations, Greater Los Angeles has the unfortunate distinction of being the smoggiest region in the United States for the 25th time in 26 years, according to the American Lung Association’s latest ‘State of the Air’ report. Several Southland counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino, received failing grades for the 25th consecutive year due to unhealthy levels of ozone pollution.
Since the turn of the century, Southern California air regulators have made significant progress in reducing the dense smog that once plagued the region. Between 1996 and 1998, Greater Los Angeles experienced around 230 days of ozone exceeding federal health standards. Thanks to over 1 million electric vehicles on California roads and extensive renewable energy installations, the region has seen a significant decrease in unhealthy smog days, with an average of 55 fewer such days between 2020 and 2022.
Despite this progress, the American Lung Association’s report highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing air pollution. Nationwide, over 100 million people live in counties with unhealthy levels of ozone, including the 18 million residents of Greater Los Angeles. The report emphasizes the need for continued efforts to reduce emissions from vehicles, power plants, and other industries to improve air quality for millions of Americans.
Southern California’s smog problem stems from its reliance on automobiles and the region’s unique geography. The numerous cars and trucks release vehicle exhaust that forms smog in the region’s sunny climate, while the surrounding mountain ranges restrict airflow and trap pollution.
State and local regulators have implemented various measures to reduce emissions, including rules for cleaner vehicles and industrial facilities. While electric vehicles and cleaner car engines have made a positive impact, transportation remains a major source of pollution in California’s large cities, with heavy-duty trucks, cargo ships, and trains being significant contributors. San Bernardino County, a hub for warehouses and freight movement, had the highest number of unhealthy smog days in the nation, with nearly six months of such conditions.
Environmental advocates emphasize the need for stricter regulations on heavy-duty vehicles and continued support for California’s law prohibiting new oil and gas drilling near homes and schools. These measures aim to reduce harmful emissions that contribute to smog and protect public health.
As regulators continue to seek solutions, experts like Dr. Afif El-Hasan, a pediatric physician in Orange County, express concern for the millions of children in Southern California who are exposed to polluted air. Smog and other pollutants can trigger asthma attacks, stunt development, and hinder physical activity for children.
The American Lung Association report underscores the ongoing need for effective air pollution control measures to protect the health and well-being of communities across Greater Los Angeles and beyond.
