Environmental Inequality: Investigating the Link Between Air Quality and Income Disparities​

John Ortega

Co-Presenters: Andy Allaico

College: The Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology

Major: Computer Information Systems (M.S.)

Faculty Research Mentor: Ching-yu Huang

Abstract:

This study investigates the relationship between air quality and income levels across New Jersey counties to determine whether lower-income areas experience higher pollution levels. Utilizing Air Quality Index (AQI) data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and per capita personal income data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, we employed advanced statistical techniques including correlation analysis, chi-square testing, and geospatial mapping. By carefully standardizing county-level data and applying rigorous analytical methods, we examined the potential links between socioeconomic status and environmental exposure. Our comprehensive analysis leveraged multiple visualization techniques, including a choropleth map and scatter plot, to reveal spatial and statistical patterns of air quality variations. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative statistical analysis with geographic visualization to provide nuanced insights into environmental justice considerations. Our findings highlight significant disparities in air quality across income levels, suggesting that lower-income counties face disproportionately higher pollution challenges. This study contributes to the growing body of research on environmental inequity, offering data-driven evidence to support targeted policy interventions aimed at mitigating pollution's impact on vulnerable communities.