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State Department Halts Air Quality Data Transmission, Raising Concerns Among Staff
This week, U.S. State Department employees expressed surprise following an internal directive that mandates embassies and consulates cease the publication of air quality monitoring data. This decision leaves many staff members anxious about access to critical environmental information.
According to a message reviewed by CBS News, the notice sent on March 4 indicates there is currently “no anticipated date for real-time data to be available.” Employees and their families had relied on these reports to gauge days with poor air quality.
One staff member, who requested anonymity due to potential repercussions, shared their shock, stating that it is illogical to stop utilizing the operational air quality monitoring infrastructure. Another colleague echoed these sentiments, questioning the rationale behind ceasing data transmission.
A spokesperson for the State Department clarified that while air quality monitors are operational, the transmission of pollution data has been halted “due to funding constraints that have caused the Department to turn off the underlying network.” The department did not disclose the costs associated with maintaining this program when asked.
Rick Duke, who previously served as the deputy special envoy for climate at the State Department, criticized the decision, arguing that maintaining the air quality monitoring systems is relatively inexpensive. He contended that the decision reflects a broader ideological stance against climate initiatives seen during the Trump administration. “These monitors aren’t even about climate,” Duke pointed out. “Why take away health information from embassy staff and the public?”
Historical Context of Air Monitoring at U.S. Embassies
The origins of air quality monitoring at U.S. embassies date back to 2008, beginning with a single monitor at the embassy in Beijing. This initiative became widely known when the AirBeijing Twitter account, launched to share hourly updates about air pollution levels, made headlines in 2010 after reporting extremely hazardous conditions.
Initially intended to inform U.S. citizens in the area, the data quickly garnered public attention in China, prompting citizens to call on their government to address the escalating pollution levels often downplayed by local authorities.
The program subsequently expanded, with the installation of 78 additional monitors at various embassies worldwide. This data was made accessible on AirNow.gov. A 2022 study indicated that this embassy initiative significantly reduced air pollution and consequently lowered the risk of premature mortality for over 300 million people living in cities hosting a U.S. embassy monitor.
However, following the recent program termination, the webpage previously dedicated to embassy air quality data now displays an error message. The final air quality report from Beijing was posted on March 4, coinciding with the cessation of data transmission.
Implications for State Department Employees
Staff members have expressed that access to air quality data is critical when considering overseas assignments, especially for those moving families with children to areas with poor air quality or unreliable monitoring. One employee criticized the decision, claiming it deprives staff of essential information necessary for their family’s health and safety, describing it as an “immoral” act.
A State Department spokesperson reassured that air quality data continues to be collected and will be made available once a secure and reliable transmission method is established. They mentioned that the department is “evaluating other transmission options.” However, when employees were asked about alternative tools for obtaining air quality information, many reported being unaware of any such resources.
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