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College

Seattle University

Major

Philosophy and History, Communication and Media, Philosophy

Faculty Mentor

John H. Armstrong

Faculty Editor

Tanya Hayes

Student Editor

Connor Rankin

Abstract

This paper analyzes the relationship between PM2.5 pollution, asthma rates, and racial disparities in West, Central, and South-Central Fresno, California (WCSCF). Our findings reveal a moderate positive correlation between asthma prevalence and racial demographics, largely due to poor urban planning—for example, residential areas near high-traffic roads, industrial zones, limited green spaces, and political prioritization of economic development over health. The study identifies two policy gaps in California’s air quality legislation: First, SB 1000 has failed to hold Fresno accountable for addressing environmental justice concerns; Second, AB 617’s reallocation of Cap-and-Trade funds toward air quality monitoring does not tackle the root causes of pollution or empower cities to implement justice-based local solutions. The paper argues that Fresno is uniquely positioned to address these issues through short-term mitigation and long-term justice-oriented policies aimed at reducing pollution and asthma rates.

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