Satellite Data May Be Key to Uncovering Dangerous Nitrogen Dioxide Hotspots in U.S. Communities

American Lung Association report examines the use of satellite-derived data to track unhealthy levels of NO₂

WASHINGTON, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the American Lung Association released a new report, "Something in the Air: Nitrogen Dioxide and Community Health," which examines the use of satellite data to evaluate the health impact of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). NO₂ is a widespread but under-monitored and under-regulated air pollutant. The report finds that stronger monitoring and protections are needed, particularly in communities near major highways, industrial facilities and other high-emission sources where NO₂ pollution is most concentrated.

The new report highlights how NO₂ pollution disproportionately impacts certain populations, particularly low-income communities and communities of color, and how satellite-derived data can provide a more detailed, neighborhood-level view of NO₂ exposure disparities.

"Nitrogen dioxide is a dangerous pollutant and a particularly difficult one to monitor. Through this new report, we are finding that people in one neighborhood may have little exposure to NO₂, while families in a neighboring community may be significantly impacted by NO₂ pollution," said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. "This is why the use of satellite data is critical because it provides a more detailed picture of who may be impacted. This is also an important tool to highlight the urgent need for stronger air quality standards and more comprehensive monitoring to protect families across the U.S."

Key findings from the report include:

• Gaps in Monitoring: There are fewer than 500 NO₂ monitoring sites operated by State, Local, and Tribal air agencies in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, these monitors often fail to capture pollution hotspots near roadways, industrial sites and other high-emission sources.
• Impact of NO₂: The report finds that NO₂ pollution is higher in densely populated metropolitan areas and disproportionately affects communities of color and low-income families because they are more likely to live near major emission sources, and major emission sources are often sited in these communities.
• Satellite Data Insights: Satellite technology can help identify NO₂ concentrations at the neighborhood level, revealing differences among adjacent communities. The report maps out exposure disparities in four counties used as examples—Maricopa County, AZ; Orange County, CA; Essex County, NJ; and Cook County, IL—demonstrating how emerging technology can provide a more localized perspective on air quality.

This report focuses on NO₂, which is a gaseous air pollutant composed of nitrogen and oxygen. NO₂ forms when fossil fuels such as coal, oil, methane gas (natural gas) or diesel are burned at high temperatures. NO₂ in the outdoor air contributes to the chemical reactions that make ozone and particle pollution. It is one of six widespread air pollutants for which there are national air quality standards to limit their levels in the outdoor air. NO₂ causes a range of harmful effects on the body, including:

• Short-term exposure can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and respiratory tract, worsening asthma symptoms, and decreasing lung function, particularly for those living near busy roadways.
• Long-term exposure increases the risk of chronic respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems and premature death. It has been associated with increased risk of disease progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, decreased immune defense and higher susceptibility to respiratory infections, especially in children.
• These health harms exacerbate existing health inequities for many of the people living in high-exposure areas.

In the new report, the Lung Association is calling for stronger national limits on NO₂ pollution, expanded research into its health effects, and increased monitoring to identify pollution hotspots and better protect at-risk communities. For more information and to read the full report, visit Lung.org/something-in-the-air.

"Something in the Air: Nitrogen Dioxide and Community Health" is part of a new series supplementing the Lung Association's annual "State of the Air" report, aiming to expand the role of emerging technologies in air quality monitoring and public health protection. The first report in the series, "Something in the Air: Bridging the Air Quality Data Gap with Satellite Technology," was released in October 2024. Read that report here.

About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events. 

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SOURCE American Lung Association