Stay-at-home orders in response to the coronavirus pandemic these last two months has led to a silver lining for communities most affected by pollution on a daily basis.
With less drivers on the road—and lots of rain in March—the Los Angeles basin has enjoyed the longest period of good air quality days since 1995.
Chris Chavez, deputy policy director for the Coalition for Clean Air, spoke with the Post during its live chat series on Wednesday about the good and bad changes associated with the pandemic, including how it impacts low-income communities of color.
In recent weeks, the Trump administration has rolled back environmental laws while corporations have lobbied California regulators to delay air quality rules.
Meanwhile, studies have shown that those exposed to pollution over a long period of time not only are more likely of developing asthma but are more at risk of getting infected with COVID-19 due to weaker immune systems.