Nature Study: Pollution in Black Communities

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Description:

For my Nature Research Project in my Complex Urban Systems course, I did a study on air pollution in black communities in Seattle to find correlation between human health and air pollution.

Analysis:

Specifically, I used CFERST to see the density and proximity of Toxic Release Inventory facilities in black communities. I also gathered health statistic information to try to find a correlation of health problems in black communities in Seattle. I used mapping, and excel data, and filters to juxtapose data to show possible relationships of these facilities and black people’s health.    

Reflection: 

I previously took an air pollution course at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and I wanted to bring in a social justice component to my studies. Air pollution is often intertwined with environmental injustice in poor communities of color. Even though my studies have some holes related to scientific validity and reliability, I have set a foundation that I can build upon. Also, I think a study like mine, can begin to bring community awareness to issues related to air pollution in their neighborhood and how they can help.