How much air pollution are you exposed to each day? A study released in late 2021 shows that in America the answer may depend on your skin color.  

Minnesota has made progress reducing air pollution over the past decade and currently meets federal air quality standards. Despite these trends, even moderate levels of air pollution can contribute to negative health consequences and exposure levels vary across the state. Recent reports released by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Minnesota Department of Health also show that people of color in Minnesota live with more air pollution than their white counterparts.  

Dr. Julian Marshall will discuss his study’s findings about these same pollutants, which demonstrated that while depending upon the pollutant, in all cases “the most exposed group was a racial/ethnic minority group.” This is especially relevant as some federal air quality standards are likely to be reviewed in the coming months. 

Join us for a conversation about emerging air quality research and how projects, policy, and structural changes can lead to more equitable emission reduction efforts and cleaner air for all. 

Registration 

Registration for this event is free and is open to everyone. A suggested donation of $30 offsets associated costs.  

Register

The virtual event program will take place on Crowdcast. 

Questions? Contact Rachel Geissinger at 612-334-3388 ext. 8122. 

Speakers 

• Julian Marshall, Associate Chair for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Climate – University of Washington, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering  
• Doug Aburano, Attainment Planning & Maintenance Section Chief, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Region 5 
• Cathy Heying, Executive Director and Founder, The Lift Garage 
• Jose Luis Villasenor, Environmental Justice Outreach Coordinator, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
• Natalya Arevalo, Local Programs Coordinator, Center for Earth, Energy, and Democracy

Related Resources 

• Disparities in air pollution exposure in the United States by race/ethnicity and income, 1990 – 2010. Environmental Health Perspectives. 
• Even many decades later, redlined areas see higher levels of air pollution. National Public Radio.