Air Pollution in Houston, Texas Term Paper

Total Length: 969 words ( 3 double-spaced pages)

Total Sources: 8

Page 1 of 3

Not surprisingly, Houston has experienced a growing problem with air pollution. According to Cherni, "In Houston, outdoor air conditions are usually very unpleasant. In addition to high temperatures and humidity, emissions from numerous cars and industry, and the heat produced by central cooling equipment, contribute to at times unbearable air quality. A report by the Houston Chronicle cited by Cherni reports that while Houston is ranked among the top ten wealthiest areas in the country in terms of personal income, the city has an inordinately high incidence of cancer mortality and infant, childhood and maternal mortality.

One of the most obvious contradictions is that high levels of air pollution make Houston one of the most contaminated cities in the United States. As noted above, Houston is much like other major cities around the world that suffer from high levels of air pollution, but industrial emissions in the region have become particularly problematic (see Figure 1 below). In this regard, Cherni suggests that, "A key issue for this urban pollution is that industrial emission tends to be localized and, despite the fact that large sections of Houston have been frequently invaded by industrial pollution, the residential areas located nearby petrochemical plants have been most adversely affected.
"

Figure 1. Oil- and gas-processing facilities located on the east side of Houston.

Source: Cherni at 82.

Conclusion

The research showed that Houston, Texas enjoys one of the highest per capita income levels in the country today in terms of personal income levels, this level of affluence has come at the expense of the city's environment. High concentrations of petrochemical processing plants and extensive use of air-conditioning, combined with high levels of private vehicle use have all contributed to the city's air pollution problems in recent years. Unfortunately, all signs indicate that these problems are going to get worse before they get better, especially given Houston's continuing rapid growth patterns.

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"Air Pollution In Houston Texas" (2007, December 10) Retrieved May 19, 2024, from
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"Air Pollution In Houston Texas", 10 December 2007, Accessed.19 May. 2024,
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/air-pollution-houston-texas-33430