San Francisco

San Francisco, located on the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula within the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, is one of California’s most diverse and densely populated cities. Its residents come from a wide range of backgrounds, with vibrant Asian, White, Hispanic/Latino, and Black communities, and many neighborhoods reflecting rich linguistic and economic diversity.

Air pollution is a persistent concern in San Francisco. Major sources include heavy traffic, local industry, the nearby port, and wildfire smoke, all of which contribute to poor air quality in certain neighborhoods. Residents in areas near freeways and industrial corridors are especially impacted, with many experiencing higher rates of asthma and other health issues.

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 2025, San Francisco residents and stakeholders came together at city and air district workshops to discuss these air quality challenges and explore solutions for a healthier, more equitable future.