The
American Lung Association, which compiled the list of dirty cities,
said the 20 million residents in these areas are at increased risk of
asthma and chronic bronchitis.
Seven
of the dirtiest cities in the U.S. are in California, where voters
rejected Prop 23 earlier this month, which would have temporarily
suspended emission-reduction requirements. Businesses,
which supported Prop 23, say tougher emission-reduction demands will
push industry out of the state. But supporters argue that green industry
will replace dirty industry when it goes.
The 10 dirtiest cities are:
1. Bakersfield, Calif.
2. Los Angeles
3. Fresno, Calif.
4. Visalia, Calif.
5. Hanford, Calif.
6. Phoenix
7. Birmingham, Ala.
8. Modesto, Calif.
9. Sacramento
10. Pittsburgh
Fortunately, no cities in our immediate area made the list!
Source: Forbes, Christopher Helman (11/15/2011)