Indirect Source Review: An answer to mega-warehouse pollution

Across the country, more warehouses are now located near homes, schools and community centers than ever before. Fueled by the nation-wide expansion of e-commerce delivery, a single warehouse may generate hundreds of truck trips a day, increasing harmful asthma-causing air pollutants such as Nitrogen Dioxide and particulate matter. Air pollution from trucks is also associated with increased health risks at other stages of life, including raising the risk of preterm birth and the risk of dementia, heart disease, and stroke in adults. Using a framework called Proximity Mapping in ten states, Environmental Defense Fund found that warehouses are disproportionately located in environmental justice communities, which are predominantly low-income communities and communities of color. In these communities, where diesel truck pollution is concentrated, childhood asthma rates often far exceed the national average.  

In response to this growing health problem, several states have proposed or implemented measures to control air pollution from these facilities; these measures are known as “Indirect Source Reviews”. The associated rules can institute many types of requirements including: 

• The use of zero-emissions trucks, 
• On-site solar power charging, 
• Funding air filters for impacted communities, 
• Considering alternate delivery methods where appropriate, and 
• Enhancing requirements or standards for warehouses operating in disadvantaged communities. 

New Jersey

In New Jersey, up to 1 in 3 residents live near a mega-warehouse and face elevated exposure to freight truck pollution, according to a Coalition for Healthy Ports and Environmental Defense Fund proximity mapping report for the state. The New Jersey legislature is considering an Indirect Source Review program (S3546/A4679) to address the health concerns and disproportionate impacts of. The bill includes several flexible options for facilities - such as warehouses - to reduce health-harming pollution while minimizing impacts to operational costs. The program is modeled on the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s rule in Southern California, which has successfully reduced air pollution in partnership with warehouses with benefits outweighing costs by three to one. New Jersey must recognize the need for a solution to this health crisis and implement an indirect source review.

To voice your support for clean deliveries and better air quality in New Jersey, contact New Jersey Senate President Nicholas P. Scutari here or at (732) 827-7480 or Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin here (732) 855-7441.