WHY FOCUS ON MONITORING AIR QUALITY IN OAKLAND?

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• Parts of Oakland and the surrounding region have particularly poor air quality due to proximity to industry and highways

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• Oakland is a diverse metropolitan area with communities that are more vulnerable of the effects of poor air quality due to increased incidence of respiratory disease and chronic exposures, and historic reduced access to quality health care

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• Oakland is a microcosm that mirrors other regions in the wider Bay Area

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• Existing partnerships provide access to necessary resources:

  • Technology to collect, track, and access air quality data

  • Educational structure to facilitate and classroom engagement

  • Funding to develop the air monitoring network and develop learning tools

  • Community organizations to support youth workforce development and disseminate air quality information

  • Community stakeholders to ensure that project activities align with local air quality concerns