North Bakersfield, located in Kern County within the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, is a diverse and predominantly Hispanic area with a relatively young population and significant economic challenges. The community faces some of the worst air pollution in the nation, with major sources including oil and gas extraction, agricultural operations, and heavy transportation.. These factors contribute to elevated rates of asthma, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory illnesses, particularly among sensitive groups like children and the elderly.  

The district has teamed up with Aclima and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to launch a community air monitoring project guiding future actions as a part of SMMI. Using Aclima’s advanced sensors, the project collects detailed, block-by-block data on air quality throughout the community. This provides residents with clear information about local pollution and helps guide actions to improve air quality, focusing on the areas and people most affected.

In April of 2025, North Bakersfield residents and stakeholders met to discuss these pressing air quality issues and explore solutions for a healthier, more equitable future.