[Soft Music]
Dr. Anenberg: Take a deep breath.
That very same air that's filling your lungs
is full of millions of fine particles.
Some so small, that they can penetrate
deep into your lungs and into your bloodstream.
Right now, you are standing near
the heart of Washington, DC.
Air pollution where you're standing
has declined by 50% in the last two decades.
And by no means is this by coincidence.
Along with ground-based observations and field campaigns, NASA uses sensors
aboard satellites and aircraft
to obtain measurements of nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide,
and other pollutants near cities, suburbs and major transportation systems.
Because you can't fix what you can't measure.
With the few ground-level air monitors we have in the city,
it’s very difficult for any individual
to understand what pollution levels are in their neighborhood.
NASA's satellite data helps to fill in the gaps between those monitors
so we can understand the different pollution levels experienced
in different neighborhoods throughout the city.
When coupled with socioeconomic data about race, ethnicity, poverty and health,
Air quality observations help identify environmental challenges
that disproportionately impact specific communities and underline
how much more work there is to be done
to minimize pollutant exposure for vulnerable populations.
Together, we can work to address longstanding inequities
and ensure everyone has the right to a deep breath of fresh air.