Note: We used the NYC Environment & Health Data Portal for this article. You can access it here.
Overview
Our environment is a complex and dynamic system encompassing all the natural elements that surround us, such as air, water, land, plants, and animals. Its balance is fundamental to the survival of all forms of life on the planet, as all components of the ecosystem are interconnected. Conservation and respect for the environment have become crucial issues in a world where climate change and habitat destruction threaten our existence and that of other species. This is especially true in our neighborhood of Washington Heights.
Living in Washington Heights is great. We have great restaurants and shops and we are always close to parks and the Hudson River. But problems such as air pollution are also a part of living in our community. What is the state of the environment in Washington Heights? What can we do to ensure we have a clean place to live? Our team took a look at the NYC Environmental and Health Portal to learn more about the state of the air in Washington Heights.
What are the local impacts of pollution?
There are a lot of cars in Washington Heights. Cars make it easy to get around but they also create pollution. Nitrogen dioxide is a pollutant formed by combustion (or burning gas in car engines). It causes breathing problems and contributes to smog and acid rain in our community. According to the NYC Environmental and Health Portal, “Nitrogen dioxide in Washington Heights is lower than the Manhattan average 18.6 ppb but also higher than the Citywide average 14.1 ppb.” This means that air pollution in Washington Heights is a problem. According to the Portal, “Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) in Washington Heights affects respiratory health, especially in vulnerable individuals, and contribute to smog formation, worsening air quality.” So we can see that air pollution caused by cars damages the environment and the people around it, which affects people’s health over time, causing chronic diseases such as asthma.
What are solutions to this problem?
Authorities are taking measures such as air monitoring and implementing regulations to reduce emissions from vehicles and industries. Citizens can reduce air pollution caused by cars too. Driving more electric cars will help because driving electric cars will help us reduce air pollution compared to gas powered cars. Trains and buses are better for the environment because they move many people and create less pollution overall. If you are worried about air pollution you can check the current air quality using your phone’s weather app or by going to https://www.airnow.gov/aqi/aqi-basics/. Enter your zip code and you’ll get a real time update.
