BEAT’s Breathe Easy Berkshires program monitors the ambient air quality in Pittsfield. We’re looking for sources of pollution that can be discussed with our community and reduced to improve air quality and health for the people of Pittsfield.
In 2020, an analysis by Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) showed stark differences in life expectancy across Pittsfield based on the neighborhood of residence. On average, those living in the Morningside and Westside neighborhoods live 10-12 fewer years than those living in the more income-secure Southeast neighborhood.
Life Expectancy (years):
- Morningside: 71
- Westside: 73.9
- Pittsfield average: 79.5
- Southeast: 83.5
How can we address this problem?
We know that air quality and pollution are involved. Numerous studies have found undeniable links between poor air quality and adverse health outcomes, such as premature death, premature birth, the development of and increased symptoms of heart and lung diseases, hospitalizations, missed school and work days, and more.
From 2023 to 2026, we’re running an ambient air quality monitoring network. Our nine stationary monitors will be deployed in locations throughout Pittsfield, including schools, city hall, the fire department, and more. Click here to view the most recent readings and past collected data from our monitors around Pittsfield.
In addition to these stationary sites, we have a small team of mobile monitors. They walk routine routes with handheld air quality monitors in the Southeast, Westside, and Morningside areas of the city. These locations are around schools, homes, businesses, and often busy streets. The mobile team also walks investigative routes near places we suspect have high levels of emissions.
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