Kingston Community Air Quality Report 2024
Introduction
The Center for the Environment Sciences and Humanities at Bard College released the Kingston Community Air Quality Report for 2024. The report indicates a slight improvement in the air quality of Kingston, New York, compared to the previous year.
Key Findings
- Air quality in Kingston showed measurable improvement in 2024.
- The report is part of a series of five consecutive annual assessments.
Emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The report aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Improved air quality contributes directly to better health outcomes for the Kingston community by reducing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Monitoring and improving air quality supports the creation of safer, healthier urban environments.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Efforts to reduce air pollution are integral to combating climate change and mitigating its effects.
Recommendations and Future Actions
- Continue regular air quality monitoring to track progress and identify pollution sources.
- Implement community-based initiatives aimed at reducing emissions from transportation and industry.
- Promote public awareness campaigns to encourage sustainable practices among residents.
- Collaborate with local government and organizations to integrate air quality improvements into broader sustainability plans.
Conclusion
The slight improvement in Kingston’s air quality in 2024 represents a positive step towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals related to health, sustainable cities, and climate action. Ongoing commitment and coordinated efforts will be essential to sustain and accelerate this progress.
1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- The article discusses air quality improvements, which directly impact public health by reducing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Improving air quality is essential for making cities safer and more sustainable for residents.
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- Air quality improvements often relate to reductions in pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate action efforts.
2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs
- SDG 3: Target 3.9
- By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 11: 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.
- SDG 13: Target 13.2
- Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning, which includes efforts to improve air quality as part of climate mitigation.
3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress
- Indicator for SDG 3.9
- Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.
- Indicator for SDG 11.6
- Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5 and PM10) in cities.
- Indicator for SDG 13.2
- Number of countries with nationally determined contributions, climate action plans, or policies that address air pollution.
4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.9: Reduce deaths and illnesses from air pollution and contamination by 2030 | Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | 11.6: Reduce adverse environmental impact of cities, focusing on air quality by 2030 | Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in cities |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into policies and planning | Number of countries with climate action plans addressing air pollution |
Source: dailyfreeman.com
