Air Pollution in Dallas-Fort Worth: A Growing Concern
Dallas-Fort Worth is among the most ozone-polluted metro areas in the U.S., according to new data from the American Lung Association. The 26th annual State of the Air report, released Wednesday, examines ozone and particle pollution in metro areas, counties and states across the country.
Ozone air pollution, also known as smog, is a respiratory irritant with effects that have been likened to a sunburn of the lungs, the organization said. Nearly half of the people living in the U.S. breathe unhealthy levels of air pollution, according to the organization.
Researchers determined that 156 million people — 25 million more than last year’s report — live in areas that received an “F” grade for either ozone or particle pollution with extreme heat and wildfires contributing to the worsened quality for millions of people.
The D-FW area ranked No. 10 out of 228 metropolitan areas for worst high ozone days — a setback from previous rankings. Other Texas locations included Houston-Pasadena at No. 7 and San Antonio-New Braunfels-Kerrville at No. 20. The area combining El Paso with Las Cruces, N.M., was No. 18.
Texas Counties Affected by Ozone Pollution
Multiple North Texas counties, including Collin, Dallas, Denton and Tarrant, received an “F” rating for ozone pollution. Dallas and Denton were rated a “B” for particle pollution, Tarrant got a “C” and information was not provided for Collin.
Rockwall County was listed as one of the cleanest counties for ozone air pollution. Polk and Victoria counties were the only other Texas locations that made it onto the clean list.
Understanding Ozone Season
Ozone season marks the window when there’s a greater risk of harmful amounts of ground-level ozone. It lasts from March 1 to Nov. 30 in Dallas-Fort Worth.
During last year’s season, D-FW remained out of compliance with the federal government’s standards for ozone pollution, according to the North Central Texas Council of Governments.
Last season finished with a design value of 83 parts per billion, while the federal limit is 70 parts per billion. The D-FW area is classified as a “serious” non-attainment zone under the Environmental Protection Agency’s ozone standard. The region has until 2027 to come into compliance.
Sources of Ozone Pollution
While ozone precursors come from multiple sources, vehicles, construction equipment, locomotives and aircraft account for about 60% of emissions, according to the North Central Texas Council of Governments.
The council has supported various initiatives to improve the region’s air quality, including the “Saving Money and Reducing Truck Emissions” program tied to the trucking industry; the Dallas-Fort Worth Air Quality Improvement Plan funded by an EPA grant; and “Engine Off North Texas”, which has the goal of reducing impacts associated with unnecessary idling of vehicles.
What Can You Do to Help?
Residents can help reduce pollution by using public transportation or carpooling.
Now, the Middle Trinity River Ecosystem Project spans more than 38,000 acres.
The shifting climate line, dry to the west and wet to the east, could bring a new era of extended drought to Dallas-Fort Worth.
Conclusion
The air pollution in Dallas-Fort Worth is a serious concern that affects the health and well-being of its residents. It is essential to understand the sources of ozone pollution and take steps to reduce emissions. By working together, we can improve the air quality in our region and create a healthier environment for everyone.
This reporting is part of the Future of North Texas, a community-funded journalism initiative supported by the Commit Partnership, Communities Foundation of Texas, The Dallas Foundation, the Dallas Mavericks, the Dallas Regional Chamber, Deedie Rose, the McCune-Losinger Family Fund, The Meadows Foundation, the Perot Foundation, the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and the University of Texas at Dallas. The News retains full editorial control of this coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is ozone pollution?
A: Ozone pollution, also known as smog, is a respiratory irritant that can cause harmful effects on the lungs.
Q: What are the sources of ozone pollution?
A: The main sources of ozone pollution are vehicles, construction equipment, locomotives, and aircraft, which account for about 60% of emissions.
Q: How can I help reduce ozone pollution?
A: You can help reduce ozone pollution by using public transportation, carpooling, and supporting initiatives that aim to improve air quality.
Q: What is the current state of air quality in Dallas-Fort Worth?
A: The D-FW area is currently classified as a “serious” non-attainment zone under the Environmental Protection Agency’s ozone standard, meaning it does not meet the federal standards for ozone pollution.
