# Border Air Pollution: Protecting Communities and Health

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/02/border-air-pollution-protecting-communities-and-health/
- Published: 2015-02-04T00:57:10-05:00
- Author: Eillin Delapaz

# EPA Launches Crucial Air Monitor at Busiest Border Crossing

## The Border Breathing Crisis

I’m absolutely thrilled to share some game-changing environmental news! The EPA 
and San Diego County have finally installed a vital air pollution monitor at the
San Ysidro border crossing. Indeed, this location sees a staggering 50,000 vehicles
and 25,000 pedestrians daily. Moreover, it stands as the Western Hemisphere’s busiest
land port of entry.

### What This Monitor Actually Tracks

The new device specifically measures PM 2.5 particles. In fact, these [tiny](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/01/what-is-the-connection-between-cbd-and-gut-health/)
pollutants measure just 2.5 microns in diameter. Nevertheless, they pose serious
health risks when inhaled. Additionally, the monitor collects real-time data on 
air pollution levels affecting [San Ysidro and nearby communities](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/11/sustainable-communities-for-schools-in-san-diego/).
Furthermore, the EPA has invested $110,000 in this two-year project.

![The air quality monitoring station at the san ysidro border crossing   one of 
the busiest land ports of entry in the western hemisphere The monitor is capturing
real time data on pm2 5 particles which are those tiny pollution particles that 
can cause serious health issues when inhaled What makes this initiative so important
is that it addresses a real environmental justice concern With 50000 vehicles and
25000 pedestrians crossing daily the potential for air pollution affecting nearby
communities is significant The 0000 epa investment will help officials understand
exactly what&aposs in the air people are breathing and take appropriate action](
https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/IMG_2096.png?resize
=300%2C300&quality=50&ssl=1 "Air quality monitors Mexican border - The Green Living
Guy")

AI

## Why This Matters So Much

“Air pollution knows no boundaries,” explains Jared Blumenfeld from EPA. Consequently,
this initiative aims to protect border [communities through better understanding of local](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/12/local-climate-journalism-drives-community-engagement/)
pollution sources. Meanwhile, the monitor sits on the pedestrian building roof at
the port entry. Subsequently, all data appears on the SDAPCD website for public 
access.

##### Environmental Justice in Action

The closest existing monitor sits 6 miles away in Chula Vista. However, it cannot
accurately represent border conditions. Therefore, this new equipment fills a critical
gap in environmental monitoring. As a result, County Supervisor Greg Cox believes
they can now “craft [solutions to improve the air](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/08/harvesting-water-from-air-a-new-solution/)
that local residents breathe.

## The Bigger Picture

The Border 2020 [Environment Program addresses these binational pollution](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/06/air-monitoring-communities-leading-environmental-justice/)
challenges. In fact, the EPA has already invested over $600 million in border environmental
projects. Unfortunately, PM 2.5 remains one of today’s biggest [clean air challenges](https://greenlivingguy.com/2013/04/wind-energy-radar-security-challenges-and-solutions/).
When inhaled, these particles reach deep into our lungs. Consequently, numerous 
health studies link them to premature death from heart and lung disease.

### Communities at Risk

Border communities face multiple environmental stressors. Hence, they’re often more
vulnerable to air pollution impacts. Meanwhile, shared airsheds mean pollution crosses
borders easily. Therefore, monitoring becomes essential for protecting public health.
Most importantly, this initiative represents a crucial step toward environmental
[justice](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/03/environmental-justice-leader-mustafa-ali-to-review-justice40-initiative-at-bipoc-climate-justice-dialogue/)
for these communities.

Visit the AirNow website to check current readings: [http://sd.sdapcd.org/Airvision/](http://sd.sdapcd.org/Airvision/)

For more on EPA EJ Month, please visit: [http://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/events/20th-anniversary.html#blog](https://web.archive.org/web/20160204010752/http://www3.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/events/20th-anniversary.html)

To access the AirNow website, please visit: [http://sd.sdapcd.org/Airvision/](https://web.archive.org/web/20171018201726/http://sd.sdapcd.org/airvision/)

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 Eillin Delapaz

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