Air Quality in South Phoenix: An Evidence-Based Approach

Though invisible from our vision, and often from our minds as a result, the quality of the air around us has immense impacts on the health of the environment and our populations. Typically, defined by the presence of three main pollutants, particulate matter 10, particulate matter 2.5, and ozone, air quality can be highly localized. Because of this, some communities can be hit harder by air quality issues. The South Mountain Village is an example of a community that is being drastically impacted by issues of air quality. Even though air pollution can have an array of causes that are difficult to pin-point, the impacts that it has on human health and quality of life are just the opposite. Consistent exposure to polluted air can result in short term health effects such as discomfort and shortness of breath along with longer term effects such as asthma and lung cancer. Areas with higher concentrations of pollutants in the air often see an increase in the health issues mentioned. In the case of the South Mountain area, there are many direct and indirect sources of the issue. The area has a higher than average amount of industry such as metal and plastic manufacturing, and the residences are mixed right in with these. Additionally, the area has less wealth and a higher population of racial minorities. These two things are not coincidences, as air quality is an environmental issue that is highly systemic. This thesis project will surround the process of developing and implementing ideas to mitigate the negative effects of air quality in the area, as well as exploring sources of the issue -- both scientific and historic. Project ideas ranging from technology to policies will be considered and investigated in order to produce feasible and actionable plans.