Breathless in the Motor City: Unveiling the Legacy, Challenges, and Mitigation Strategies of Air Pollution in Detroit

Abstract

This paper delves into the historical trajectory, current status, and consequential ramifications of air pollution in the city of Detroit. With a specific emphasis on the pollutants NO2, SO2, PM2.5, and O3, the study scrutinizes the health implications and societal burdens arising from the escalating air pollution levels against the backdrop of Detroit's historical evolution. Despite regulatory endeavors, Detroit's enduring role as an industrial and manufacturing hub substantiates the escalating health and economic toll of air pollution. These costs disproportionately impact vulnerable demographics, including the elderly, children, and individuals with chronic illnesses. The paper underscores racial disparities in the distribution of this burden. To address these challenges, the paper advocates for a mitigation strategy inspired by the European Union's NEC Directive. The proposed approach involves intensified monitoring of pollutants, implementation of targeted policies, and enhanced industrial regulations. Ultimately, this paper comprehensively examines the historical legacy, contemporary, and future dimensions of air pollution in Detroit, delineating the profound impact on the city and its residents, while offering strategic recommendations for mitigation.