Embedded Files
Neighbors Who Care About Clean Air
Neighbors Who Care About Clean Air
North Omaha is home to strong, vibrant families who have built schools, businesses, churches, and neighborhoods for generations. For decades, these neighbors have also lived next to the North Omaha Power Plant, which still operates two coal-burning units until 2026 (WOWT, KETV).
Community members have spoken out, organized, and placed monitors in their neighborhoods to better understand how air quality affects their health and future (WOWT). Their voices are at the heart of ongoing conversations about how to move toward cleaner energy and healthier neighborhoods.
What’s in the Air?
What’s in the Air?
The coal plant releases pollutants that directly affect people’s health:
Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂): Worsens asthma and breathing issues; contributes to acid rain (Nebraska DEE report).
Fine Particulate Matter (PM₂.₅): Tiny particles that lodge in the lungs and bloodstream, linked to heart disease, strokes, and premature death (NIH).
Ozone (Ground-Level Smog): Triggers asthma attacks and breathing problems, especially in kids and older adults (American Lung Association).
Other Toxics: Coal plants also emit heavy metals and chemicals tied to cancer and chronic illness (PurpleAir).
How Families Are Affected
How Families Are Affected
Asthma: In North Omaha, asthma rates are nearly three times higher than the state average (Westside Wired).
Health Risks: Pollution has been linked to heart attacks, premature deaths, and missed days of school and work (Toll From Coal).
Children & Elders: Kids’ developing lungs and older adults’ health are especially vulnerable to dirty air. Studies show infant mortality is higher near large coal plants (PurpleAir).
Equity & Justice: Residents have pointed out that the plant was placed in a historically redlined, predominantly Black neighborhood — raising ongoing concerns about fairness and environmental justice (Westside Wired).
What the Reports Show
What the Reports Show
The American Lung Association’s 2025 “State of the Air” Report ranked Omaha as (American Lung Association):
29th worst in the U.S. for ozone pollution (with an “F” grade).
8+ unhealthy air days per year, when it’s unsafe for kids, elders, and people with asthma to be outdoors.
Even at “legal” levels, pollution harms long-term health.
Why This Matters
Why This Matters
The people of North Omaha deserve safe air to breathe, healthy children, and neighborhoods where families can thrive. Moving beyond coal isn’t just an energy decision — it’s about protecting lives and honoring the strength of a community that has carried this burden for too long.
Learn more & get involved:
Here’s a full list of sources where you can read more:
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse