California Air Resources Board

Cumulative air pollution exposure burden takes into account both the exposure to multiple criteria pollutants and toxic air contaminants and the vulnerability of the population in the community. CARB expects that the evaluation and identification of cumulative exposure will rely on a compilation of data sources and tools. CARB will work with air districts to examine the six factors described below to assess the cumulative air pollution exposure burden in each community selected:

1. Concentrations of ozone, particle pollution, and toxic air pollutants from measurements, air quality modeling, or other information quantifying air pollution exposure burden.
2. Density of air pollution sources and the magnitude of emissions within the community from mobile and stationary pollution sources.
3. Cancer risk estimates based on existing or new air quality modeling that characterizes the burden faced by the community.
4. Sensitive populations including children and the elderly at schools, hospitals, and day care centers located in close proximity to mobile and stationary emissions sources of concern, including roadways.
5. Public health data that are representative of the incidence or worsening of disease related to air quality such as the prevalence of asthma, heart disease, and low birth weights.
6. Socio-economic factors, such as poverty levels and unemployment rates.