The study, published in the journal Environmental Research, focuses on the San Francisco Bay Area and is the first health impact assessment of coal train pollution in the world. It found that coal train pollution has significant health effects that disproportionately impact communities of color and people who are young, old, or have low incomes. While centered on East Bay neighborhoods, the study carries implications for communities worldwide living alongside passing coal trains. At least 80 countries use coal power, which generates about 40% of the world's electricity. "These trains run all over the world, exposing the poorest populations who often live close to the train tracks," said lead author Bart Ostro, a scientist with the UC Davis Air Quality Research Center. "As a result, these impacts have local and global implications." Coal, and more coal The study includes parts of Oakland, Berkeley, Martinez and Richmond, where coal is already being transported from Utah mines by rail. The assessment specifically centers on the potential health impacts of a proposed coal terminal under review, which could bring an additional 7.4 million tons of coal per year by rail to the Port of Oakland. "That translates to about 10 trains per week potentially passing through a densely populated urban area," Ostro said. "The trains continuously generate microscopic particles--called PM2.5, or fine particles, which are regulated by the U.S. EPA. This results in chronic exposures. The particles can infiltrate the lungs and bloodstream and pose serious health risks." Health impacts of coal trains To quantify the health impacts of PM2.5 emitted from passing coal trains, the study authors integrated air quality data with medical and demographic information using software mapping and analysis programs. They ran different scenarios for increases in PM2.5 for the roughly 262,000 people who would be exposed. They found that under... |