TagAir Quality Monitors(111)

This report chapter examines measurements of ultrafine particles (UFPs) — very tiny airborne particles smaller than 0.1 micrometers — and their potential health effects, including risks to neurological, respiratory, and cardiovascular health. UFPs make up roughly 90% of all airborne particles and are primarily produced by fuel combustion sources such as diesel engines, gasoline engines, and jet engines. People living near heavily trafficked roads, airports, refineries, and railyards may face elevated exposure to these particles.

The University of Washington's Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences is developing two mobile air quality monitoring platforms to identify pollutant mixtures in Washington communities affected by sources such as non-roadway transportation, industrial emissions, and burn events. The $925,000 project will equip hybrid SUV vehicles with instruments measuring ultrafine particles, black carbon, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and other pollutants, enabling flexible and simultaneous monitoring at multiple locations. The project will also produce standardized sampling protocols and community engagement strategies to support long-term air quality trend analysis.

This report, prepared by the Desert Research Institute for the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, reviews air monitoring capabilities near oil refineries in the San Francisco Bay Area. It identifies primary risk drivers — including emissions from normal operations, potential emissions from upset conditions, and fugitive emissions — and evaluates existing monitoring tools to assess both chronic and acute health effects. The study aims to develop an enhanced monitoring matrix to better track refinery emissions and protect nearby communities.

This January 2021 report from the Washington State Department of Ecology tracks greenhouse gas emissions across Washington State from 1990 to 2018. Published by the Air Quality Program, it provides a comprehensive inventory of the state's emissions data over nearly three decades. Note that this document focuses on statewide air quality and climate data and does not specifically address Sea-Tac Airport noise policy.

This presentation outlines the 'Airproofing' pilot project aimed at improving air quality for residents of East Boston, a neighborhood heavily impacted by pollution from nearby Logan Airport. The project, a collaboration between Air Partners, Olin College of Engineering, Aerodyne Research, and community organizations, examines the problem of airport-related air pollution, explores protective solutions for homes and buildings, and describes testing methods and resource needs. While focused on East Boston, the initiative offers a potential model for addressing aviation-related air quality burdens in other airport-adjacent communities.