Markey Bill Provides Tools to Better Understand Local Sources of Air Pollution and Protect Health

Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts today introduced the “Technology Assessment for Air Quality Management Act of 2021,” to strengthen hyperlocal air quality insights.

“Hyperlocal air quality monitoring technologies are critically important for understanding the local health impacts of air pollution. We need better data on local sources of air pollution and local health outcomes, and the ability to integrate this data into decision-making.

“We thank Senator Markey, and the bill’s original cosponsors, for introducing the ‘Technology Assessment for Air Quality Management Act,’ which would provide needed tools to better understand air pollution and protect health.

“EDF looks forward to continuing to work with Senator Markey and the bill’s cosponsors, the EPA, and communities across the country to improve the quality and usability of hyperlocal air quality monitoring technologies and data.”

• Sarah Vogel, Senior Vice President, Healthy Communities

The bill would require the US Environmental Protection Agency to better enable the development and understanding of hyperlocal air pollution insights at the community level. Under this bill, EPA would update the agency’s Air Sensor Toolbox with characterizations of the advantages and limitations of community monitoring technologies such as low-cost monitors and satellite data products, potential uses of the data, and how to access data on potential sources of air pollution and health impacts from air pollution. The bill would also require EPA to better integrate environmental justice mapping tools, focus on cumulative burdens, and improve the quantitative use of low-cost sensors and data from satellites in decision-making.