Air Pollution from Oil and Gas Production: A Silent Crisis

Air pollution stemming from oil and gas production in the United States is a significant public health crisis, contributing to approximately 91,000 premature deaths each year. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for comprehensive policy reforms to mitigate the adverse health impacts associated with fossil fuel extraction and consumption.

The Scope of the Health Crisis

A recent study published in Science Advances provides a comprehensive analysis of the health burdens attributable to air pollution from the oil and gas sector. The research, conducted by experts from University College London and the Stockholm Environment Institute, reveals that air pollution from oil and gas activities is responsible for:

• 91,000 premature deaths annually
• 216,000 new cases of childhood asthma each year
• 10,350 pre-term births
• 1,610 lifetime cancer cases

These health impacts are primarily linked to pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ozone (O₃), which are emitted throughout the oil and gas production lifecycle—from extraction to end-use combustion. Notably, the end-use stage, which includes the burning of fossil fuels in vehicles and power plants, accounts for 96% of the total health incidents associated with this sector .

Disproportionate Impact on Marginalized Communities

The study also highlights significant racial and ethnic disparities in exposure to oil and gas-related air pollution. Communities of color, particularly Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, and Asian populations, bear a disproportionate share of the health burdens. For instance, Black and Asian communities are most affected by emissions from downstream activities such as refining and combustion, while Native American and Hispanic populations experience higher exposures from upstream and midstream operations like extraction and transportation .

These disparities are often the result of historical policies, such as redlining and industrial zoning practices, that have concentrated polluting industries in or near communities of color. As a result, these populations face elevated risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as other health issues linked to air pollution.

Economic Costs and Policy Implications

Beyond the human toll, the economic costs of oil and gas-related air pollution are staggering. In 2016 alone, the U.S. incurred $77 billion in health damages due to pollutants from oil and gas production, including hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and long-term care associated with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions .

These findings underscore the urgent need for robust environmental regulations and policies aimed at reducing emissions from the oil and gas sector. Implementing stricter air quality standards, investing in cleaner technologies, and transitioning towards renewable energy sources are critical steps toward safeguarding public health and addressing environmental justice concerns.

Conclusion

The health and economic impacts of air pollution from oil and gas production are profound and far-reaching. Addressing this crisis requires a concerted effort from policymakers, industry leaders, and communities to implement effective solutions that protect public health and promote environmental equity. By taking decisive action now, we can mitigate the adverse effects of fossil fuel-related air pollution and work towards a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

References

1. Vohra, K., et al. (2025). The health burden and racial-ethnic disparities of air pollution from the major oil and gas lifecycle stages in the United States. Science Advances, 11(34), eadu2241. https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adu2241

2. Shah, S. (2025, August 22). Scientists link U.S. air pollution from oil and gas to 91,000 premature deaths each year. Time. https://time.com/7311655/us-oil-gas-air-pollution-health-impacts-study/

3. Harley, S. (2025, August 22). Oil and gas air pollution linked to 91,000 early deaths in the US each year. Phys.org. https://phys.org/news/2025-08-oil-gas-air-pollution-linked.html

4. University College London. (2025, August 22). US oil and gas air pollution causes unequal health impacts. EurekAlert. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1095027

5. Buonocore, J. J., et al. (2023). Air pollution from oil and gas production contributes to thousands of early deaths, childhood asthma cases nationwide. Boston University School of Public Health.