Swine pollution adds to health disparities

Ammonia pollution from industrialized swine facilities is causing significant environmental and health disparities in North Carolina, according to new research published in Environmental Science & Technology. The study, led by Sally Pusede, associate professor of environmental sciences, used satellite data to measure ammonia concentrations, highlighting how communities of color bear the brunt of this unregulated pollution.

Her team’s findings revealed that Black, Hispanic, and Native American residents experience 27 percent to 49 percent higher ammonia exposure compared with white populations. Ammonia, a by-product of animal waste, can travel miles downwind, affecting people far beyond the immediate vicinity of these facilities. “This is intense pollution that’s largely unregulated under the Clean Air Act,” Pusede said.

The study underscores the critical role of satellite technology in addressing gaps in air quality monitoring. Since satellites continually collect data, this approach provides vital evidence to support community claims of harm and informs policymakers about the widespread impact of ammonia pollution, Pusede said. Residents near these facilities have reported respiratory issues, nausea, and other health problems, yet regulations remain minimal. “This is an environmental justice issue,” Pusede said.

The findings were shared with advocacy groups, and Pusede hopes the data will empower communities to push for stronger protections. Undergraduate researchers Isabella Dressel (Col class of ’24) and Akirah Epps (Col class of ’23) co-led the study and earned first-author credit on the publication.