Pollution

Asian Pollution Contributes To US Smog Increase Despite Emission Cuts

Pollution from Asia contributed to up to 65 percent of the smog increase in the western U.S.

Asian Pollution Contributes To US Smog Increase Despite Emission Cuts
Getty Images / Lam Yik Fei
SMS

Smog is up 65 percent in the western U.S., according to a new study.

Researchers say it's because of Asian countries' emission levels of nitrogen oxides, which have tripled since 1990.

The findings come from pollution data collected in cities and national parks across the western U.S.

The Asian-made gases travel across the ocean. They've offset the 50 percent cut in emissions of nitrogen oxides made by the U.S. over the past 25 years. 

Want To Fight Smog? Try Covering A Building In Plants
Want To Fight Smog? Try Covering A Building In Plants

Want To Fight Smog? Try Covering A Building In Plants

The buildings are expected to be constructed by 2018.

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Researchers say a global strategy is necessary in order for the U.S. to meet air quality objectives.

High levels of these nitrogen oxides can be harmful to people and animals.