What’s in the Air We Breathe? Understanding Air Quality
Air quality is linked to a number of health concerns. Ask students: What are ways we can improve the air we breathe?
Air quality alerts are becoming more common across the U.S., especially during the hot summer months. From wildfire smoke in the West to pollution from traffic and industry in big cities, the air we breathe isn’t always as clean as it looks. Recently, several states — including California, New York and Texas — issued multiple Code Orange and Code Red warnings, which signal unhealthy air conditions for sensitive groups or even the general public.
Air quality is measured by something called the Air Quality Index , which looks at pollutants like ozone, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide, among other impurities. When these levels are high, breathing the air can lead to health problems—especially for children, older people and individuals with asthma or heart conditions
Why Air Quality Matters
Clean air is something many people take for granted, but pollution is a serious threat to human health and the environment. Poor air quality has been linked to lung disease, heart problems, and even early death. It can also harm animals, plants and entire ecosystems.
The rise in air pollution is often connected to human activity—such as burning fossil fuels, operating factories and clearing land through fires. Climate change can make things worse by increasing heatwaves, droughts and wildfires, all of which contribute to poor air quality.
Understanding air pollution and how we can reduce it is a key part of protecting public health and building a more sustainable future.
Discussion Questions
- What is air pollution, and where does it come from?
- Can we see air pollution? If not, how do we know it's there?
- What role do cars, factories and wildfires play in air quality?
- Can technology help us improve air quality? How?
Focus Questions
- What are the main sources of air pollution in your community?
- Who is most affected by poor air quality—and why?
- Should schools or sports events be canceled when air quality is bad?
- Is it fair that some neighborhoods have cleaner air than others?
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Amanda Eisenberg is the editorial lead for The 80 Million, a Medicaid newsletter powered by Manatt Health. She also supports Dr. Vin Gupta in his work with the American Federation of Teachers. In her free time, Amanda enjoys walking around New York City and reading. She's also the author of PEOPLE... See More
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