Definition

Mean of modeled annual average acrolein concentration for census tracts in a county using 2017 NATA data

Numerator

Modeled mean acrolein concentration in micrograms per cubic meter

Denominator

N/A

Why Is This Important?

Throughout the nation, mobile sources (e.g., cars, trucks, buses) account for a large fraction of acrolein emissions to the environment. Acrolein is emitted into the atmosphere through incomplete combustion of gasoline from automotive tailpipes. Acrolein causes eye irritation, burning of the nose and throat, and lung damage. These effects usually disappear after exposure stops. However, there is very little information about how exposure to acrolein affects people's health.

How Are We Doing?

All New Jersey counties exceed the health benchmark of 0.02 micrograms of acrolein per cubic meter of air. The highest reported concentration using modeled results can be found in Hudson County. Acrolein concentrations in ambient air throughout the state are also influenced by out-of-state emissions from both stationary and mobile sources.

What Is Being Done?

In the outdoor environment, acrolein is a byproduct of combustion and subject to the general controls on automobile and stationary sources. Industrial facilities that emit this chemical must obtain permits from the NJDEP Air Program and are also subject to state and federal air pollution control technology requirements.