Transportation as a Pollutant

Living near transportation infrastructure like freeways still impacts surrounding communities, many of which are BIPOC or low-income due to historical redlining and exclusionary zoning rules. Cars and other transportation sources significantly add to regional pollution, making up over 30 percent of the primary smog-forming pollutants emitted and 28 percent of the fine particulates. People living in LA County are exposed to over 50 percent more vehicle pollution than the state average. Black and Latino Californians are disproportionately exposed to this pollution, as are low-income households.

Related health impacts of pollution exposure include low birth weights, asthma, hospital admissions for respiratory disease and, in some cases, cancer.