Wildfires expose farmworkers to dangerous smoke as climate change intensifies

A new study reveals that climate change-driven wildfires are subjecting farmworkers to hazardous air pollution, with many continuing to work in unsafe conditions out of economic necessity.

Dorany Pineda reports for The Associated Press.

In short:

Farmworkers in Sonoma County, California, worked through dangerous wildfire conditions in 2020, inhaling toxic smoke with little protection.
Researchers found that air quality monitors and emergency protocols failed to safeguard workers during the fires.
Many farmworkers, especially those lacking legal status, face increased health risks without adequate protections or health coverage.

Key quote:

"We always expose ourselves to danger out of necessity, whether by fire or disaster, when the weather changes, when it’s hot or cold."

— Maria Salinas, farmworker

Why this matters:

As wildfires worsen with climate change, farmworkers—essential to the food supply—are increasingly vulnerable to health risks from toxic smoke exposure, highlighting the need for better protections as a matter of both food security and climate justice.

Related EHN coverage:

apnews.com

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