PM2.5 polluters disproportionately and systemically affect people of color in the United States

Racial-ethnic minorities in the United States are exposed to disproportionately high levels of ambient fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5), the largest environmental cause of human mortality. However, it is unknown which emission sources drive this disparity and whether differences exist by emission sector, geography, or demographics. Quantifying the PM2.5 exposure caused by each emitter type, we show that nearly all major emission categories-consistently across states, urban and rural areas, income levels, and exposure levels-contribute to the systemic PM2.5 exposure disparity experienced by people of color. We identify the most inequitable emission source types by state and city, thereby highlighting potential opportunities for addressing this persistent environmental inequity.

Automated summary

In the United States, racial-ethnic minorities are disproportionately exposed to high levels of ambient fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5), with nearly all major emission categories contributing to the systemic PM2.5 exposure disparity experienced by people of color. By identifying the most inequitable emission source types by state and city, potential opportunities for addressing this persistent environmental inequity are highlighted.