Good news for the United States is found in a recent series of maps by NASA. Air pollution has significantly improved around the country.
Rick Noack shares the news: "NASA scientists created a series of maps that show the "human fingerprint on global air quality." The images offer insights into air pollution in nearly 200 cities around the world, as well as in neighboring areas."
"To illustrate to what extent pollution has increased or decreased, the NASA researchers measured concentrations between 2005 and 2014. Blue areas indicate a decrease in pollution; orange indicates an increase," adds Noack.
Noack notes the good news: "the scientists concluded that the United States, Europe and Japan have greatly improved their air quality." The bad news, however: "pollution has worsened in parts of China, India and the Middle East."
Average nitrogen dioxide concentrations across the United States in 2014. (Map created by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center)
The trend map showing the decreases in nitrogen dioxide concentrations from 2005 to 2014. (Map created by NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center)
A detailed post on NASA also explains the study and the mapping exercise.
FULL STORY: This world map shows where pollution is getting worse. There’s good news for the U.S.
Wisconsin Republicans Block Congestion, Pollution Funds From Bike and Ped Projects
It was always a risk that states would use funding from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to double down on the transportation systems that create congestion and air pollution.
The Trump Administration's Environmental Policies Have Consequences for Black Lives
A Trump administration decision not to tighten Clean Air Act restrictions on soot pollution will have more consequences for Black Americans.
As Coronavirus Spreads, Air Pollution Plummets
More people are driving less and staying at home. The result is significant improvements in air quality in cities across the country.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions