Black Bay Area communities at High Risk for Exposure to TOXIC Air Pollution far greater than Bay Area whites

Black low income Bay Area residents have been found to live primarily near highways and major roads due to the outstanding issue of housing discrimination also known as redlining.

Due to redlining Black high risk communities have been exposed to toxic particulate matter emitted from vehicles on roadways. Exposure to pm 2.5 has been found to cause respiratory illness and even death, which disproportionately affects high risk long term Black communities in the Bay Area the most.

Combatting toxic air pollution exposure from cars on highways and major roadways in Black communities requires a multifaceted approach which focuses on both short-term and long-term solutions. First, advocating for stricter emission regulations on vehicles, particularly in areas with high traffic density, can help reduce the levels of harmful pollutants. In addition, investing in green infrastructure, such as planting trees and creating buffer zones along highways, can help absorb pollutants and provide cleaner air for residents.

Furthermore, transitioning to clean energy alternatives, such as electric vehicles, and encouraging public transportation systems can significantly reduce the number of pollutants in the air. Community engagement is also critical, as Black high risk long term residents should be involved in local policy decisions, ensuring that their health concerns are prioritized. Finally, raising awareness about the importance of air quality and the environmental health risks associated with pollution can mobilize both local and state authorities to prioritize environmental justice and take steps to address these disparities in Black communities.

Clean air, water, and soil should not be treated by government officials as a privilege more specifically a white one, it should be treated as a basic human necessity for all. Cherry picking who gets to live with less air pollution should not be a thing. More must be done to combat the effects of air pollution in Black high risk-long term communities in the Bay Area because environmental justice is for all.

Forgotten Waters in Invisible Communities: Community Researchers in the Bay Area Lead the Charge for Groundbreaking Testing along Carquinez Strait Shorelines

The Carquinez Strait is a crucial waterway for low income-historically disadvantaged high risk communities who rely on subsistence fishing .

All Positives Possible has raised concern about the lack of fish quality data testing that has not occured for 33+ years along the Carquinez Strait. As a result All Positives Possible has hosted a groundbreaking program that collaborates with community subsistence fishers and scientists to run tests on the fish quality in these waters.

Shocking Discoveries

Their findings uncovered significant industrial pollutive exposure sources. These sources include live trains that runs frequently along the shorelines, emits fumes, and creates noise & air pollution.

Cancer found in Railroad Communities

Additionally, studies have found cancer in 70% of individuals who live within a mile of railroads.

Refinery Explosions at Philips 66

In conjunction, the nearby Philips 66 refinery located nearby residential areas caused noxious odors and pollutants to be emitted into the air and water at alarming rates. Furthermore in 2019 a fiery explosion began at the New Star Energy plant within reach of residential areas causing respiratory illness & emergency evacuations.

Nearby low income public housing residents were abandoned and left to fend for themselves while white residents in nearby homes were personally escorted to safety.

This contributes to the degradation of human & aquatic life, forcing them to carry toxic burdens.

The fish & water testing program hosted by All Positives Possible serves as a powerful tool in combatting these overwhelming issues in the Bay Area.

Thank You Federal EPA

All Positives Possible greatly appreciates the federal EPA for its funding & support for our Carquinez Strait Fish & Preservation Project efforts along the shorelines.

New Research finds the link between Air Pollution and Mental Health Decline

Air pollution is often viewed through the lens of physical health risks, such as respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues.

However, emerging research reveals a concerning connection between air quality and mental health. Pollutants like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide can penetrate the brain and exacerbate neurological conditions, leading to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline.

Studies have shown that long-term exposure to air pollution is correlated with higher incidences of mental health disorders. For instance, individuals living in areas with elevated levels of air pollutants report greater feelings of anxiety and depressive symptoms. The neuroinflammatory response triggered by these pollutants may affect brain function and mood regulation, suggesting that environmental factors can play a significant role in mental well-being.

Moreover, vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, are particularly at risk. Children exposed to poor air quality may experience developmental delays and behavioral issues, while older adults may face a greater likelihood of dementia and other cognitive impairments. The compounding effects of air pollution on these groups highlight the urgent need for public health interventions aimed at reducing exposure and improving air quality.

Addressing air pollution is a mental health necessity. Policymakers and communities must prioritize clean air initiatives, recognizing that the benefits extend beyond physical health to encompass psychological well-being.

What You Can Do To Reduce Your Risk

Exercising indoors or in green spaces when pollution risk is high.

Or if outside where pollution is high wearing n95 masks

Investing in indoor air purifiers with HEPA filters

Educating yourself on local air quality info regularly