Investigate the problem icon
Step 1: Investigate the problem

Identify and prioritize pollution sources

Information on pollution sources and emissions comes from several types of data, including self‑reported data, continuous monitors and satellite observations. Modeling tools, such as the EPA’s MOVES model, are another powerful tool that your city can tap into to estimate or even predict pollution from specific activities, such as transportation or energy generation.

Together, these tools help cities identify where pollution is coming from, how much is released and which sources contribute most to poor air quality. They provide the insights that cities need to make the case for new policies and to focus resources where they will have the greatest impact. Check out our curated list of featured tools below to begin identifying your city’s top pollution sources.

Source and emissions

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Database Map

GeoPlatform.gov

Aggregates emission and air quality data from agencies like the EPA, NOAA, and NASA.
Database Guidance Policy Strategy examples

Smoke Management Program

A smoke management program approved by EPA for prescribed burns. Describes elements of smoke management program
Analysis Database Map Tool

California CARB Pollution Mapping Tool

This is a comprehensive tool that allows users to query, locate, and view GHG, criteria, and air toxics emissions. The tool includes maps, charts, and tables,...
Washington DC air pollution heatmap
Nitrogen dioxide pollution contributes to approximately 3,500 new childhood asthma cases every year in the Washington D.C. metro region.
New York City air pollution heatmap
Nitrogen dioxide pollution contributes to approximately 21,000 new childhood asthma cases every year in the New York metro region.
Philadelphia air pollution heatmap
Nitrogen dioxide pollution contributes to approximately 4,000 new childhood asthma cases every year in the Philadelphia metro region.
Chicago air pollution heatmap
Nitrogen dioxide pollution contributes to more than 10,000 new childhood asthma cases every year in the Chicago metro region.
Boston air pollution heatmap
Nitrogen dioxide pollution contributes to approximately 2,700 new childhood asthma cases every year in the Boston metro region.
Austin air pollution heatmap
Nitrogen dioxide pollution contributes to more than 1,800 new childhood asthma cases every year in the Austin metro region.
Baltimore air pollution heatmap
Nitrogen dioxide pollution contributes to more than 1,300 new childhood asthma cases every year in Baltimore metro region.

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