Sensitive Groups at Higher Risk of Health Issues Due to Outside Air
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Health departments for Shelby County, DeSoto County, and Crittenden County all issued “Code Orange” air quality alerts for Wednesday, May 1. Air quality index guidelines determined that the air could cause breathing issues for some people.
Air Quality Monitoring and Recommendations
- The Shelby County Health Department (SCHD), Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), and the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) have been monitoring the ozone concentrations in their respective areas.
- Sensitive groups are at a higher risk of health issues due to the outside air, according to these organizations.
- The health departments recommend that those considered most sensitive to air pollution limit outdoor activity.
- People who have lung ailments or heart conditions, as well as the elderly, children with developing lungs, and those who spend a considerable amount of time outdoors such as athletes, construction workers, and gardeners are considered part of the sensitive group.
Health Effects and Symptoms
- Health effects of high ozone levels include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; coughing, phlegm, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
- These symptoms may impact the general public as well as the sensitive groups. If these symptoms become serious or continue for a prolonged period, it is recommended to seek medical attention.
Recommended Actions for Travel During Code Orange
- Refuel cars and lawnmowers after 7:00 p.m., avoid spills, and do not “top off” tanks.
- Carpool or use mass transit.
- Combine errands instead of making many separate trips.
- Drive less, especially during peak hours or hot days.
Video: Air Quality and Health
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination | Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management | Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g. PM2.5) in cities (population weighted) |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
The article discusses the health issues caused by poor air quality, specifically high ozone levels. This aligns with SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
The article mentions the air quality alerts issued by health departments for different counties. This relates to SDG 11, which focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities, including improving air quality.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination
The article highlights the health risks associated with poor air quality, indicating the relevance of Target 3.9.
Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management
The article discusses the air quality alerts issued by health departments for different counties, indicating the importance of addressing air quality in cities and communities.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article does not explicitly mention any indicators. However, based on the content, the following indicators can be used:
- Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution
- Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g. PM2.5) in cities (population weighted)
These indicators can measure the progress towards reducing deaths and illnesses caused by air pollution (Target 3.9) and improving air quality in cities (Target 11.6).
4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination | Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management | Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g. PM2.5) in cities (population weighted) |
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Fuente: localmemphis.com
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