Latino Communities Defy Trump EPA to Monitor Air Pollution

In September 2025, a growing number of Latino residents across the U.S. are taking action to monitor the air quality in their communities. Motivated by rising pollution concerns, they have installed air quality sensors outside their homes, businesses, and churches to better understand the air they're breathing and advocate for change.

This grassroots monitoring comes as the Trump administration's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to roll back pollution regulations, despite evidence that communities of color are disproportionately affected by toxic air. Latinos are nearly three times more likely than white individuals to live in areas with poor air quality.

While government agencies collect air quality data, researchers note that this information may not present the complete picture, as some sensors are primarily located in wealthier, predominantly white neighborhoods. By installing sensors in specific communities, residents are able to fill these data gaps and share the information with local officials to inform where regulations and enforcement are needed.

Despite facing funding challenges, with one of their grants recently cut by the EPA, these community-led efforts remain undeterred. Residents are determined to raise awareness, educate their neighbors, and push for policies that will improve air quality and protect public health in their neighborhoods.