Changes in U.S. air pollution during the COVID-19 pandemic
Berman, JD; Ebisu, K
HERO ID
7493177
Reference Type
Journal Article
Year
2020
Language
English
PMID
| HERO ID | 7493177 |
|---|---|
| In Press | No |
| Year | 2020 |
| Title | Changes in U.S. air pollution during the COVID-19 pandemic |
| Authors | Berman, JD; Ebisu, K |
| Journal | Science of the Total Environment |
| Volume | 739 |
| Page Numbers | 139864 |
| Abstract | The COVID-19 global pandemic has likely affected air quality due to extreme changes in human behavior. We assessed air quality during the COVID-19 pandemic for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the continental United States from January 8th-April 21st in 2017-2020. We considered pollution during the COVID-19 period (March 13-April 21st) and the pre-COVID-19 period (January 8th-March 12th) with 2020 representing 'current' data and 2017-2019 representing 'historical' data. County-level pollution concentrations were compared between historical versus current periods, and counties were stratified by institution of early or late non-essential business closures. Statistically significant NO2 declines were observed during the current COVID-19 period compared to historical data: a 25.5% reduction with absolute decrease of 4.8 ppb. PM2.5 also showed decreases during the COVID-19 period, and the reduction is statistically significant in urban counties and counties from states instituting early non-essential business closures. Understanding how air pollution is affected during COVID-19 pandemic will provide important clues regarding health effects and control of emissions. Further investigation is warranted to link this finding with health implications. |
| Doi | 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139864 |
| Pmid | 32512381 |
| Wosid | WOS:000561798600014 |
| Is Certified Translation | No |
| Dupe Override | No |
| Is Public | Yes |
| Language Text | English |
| Keyword | Air pollution; COVID-19; NO(2); PM(2.5); Pandemic |