Using air dispersion modeling and proximity analysis to assess chronic exposure to fine particulate matter and environmental justice in New York City

Abstract

Increased exposure to air pollution has been connected with environmentally-linked diseases (increased morbidity), decreased lifespan (increased mortality), environmental injustices (inequitable distribution of pollution based on population characteristics), reduction of quality-of-life, and increased health care costs. The main goals of this study are to explore the possibility that specific populations (e.g. racial and ethnic minorities, less-educated populations, lower income populations) suffer from increased chronic exposure to PM2.5 from local stationary sources when compared to other populations in the context of environmental justice as well as to compare methods of exposure estimation. Fine particulate matter exposure from stationary sources in New York City was estimated using proximity analysis and air dispersion modeling. The characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses of these techniques were compared and contrasted. The results of both analyses suggested the presence of environmental injustices, although the relationships appeared complex and non-linear.