Study Finds Subway Pollution Is Too High—With a Disproportionate Effect on Black and Hispanic Riders – State of the Planet

A recent study conducted by postdoctoral researcher Shams Azad at Columbia Climate School found that New York City subway cars and platforms are significantly more polluted than the air above ground. The study, published in PLOS One, revealed that particulate matter levels in the subway are 10 times higher than above ground and pose a health risk to commuters, especially Black and Hispanic populations. Azad’s analysis also showed that low-income communities are more exposed to this pollution than affluent communities. Moving forward, Azad plans to research the health effects of this exposure and the variability of pollution levels over time and seasons. Despite the findings, Azad continues to ride the subway, as many New Yorkers do, due to lack of alternative transportation options.