Visualizing Pollution: Corpus Christi Data Dashboard

Local activist groups, including Ingleside on the Bay Coastal Watch Association, and Earthworks, have begun to hold corporations accountable through data.

Forward Looking InfraRed (FLIR) imagery videos were acquired by Earthworks researchers in December 2021. These videos were uploaded to Youtube and are linked in the map viewer.

The current air and water quality data provides a baseline for comparison of future pollution issues. This data can serve as a tool of accountability if future environmental justice and climate crisis events occur.

The Texas Stream Team has published water quality data for the entire state, so particular attention was paid to Corpus Christ in this map viewer. Stream Team Data was trimmed to five counties in Corpus Christi: Kleberg, Nueces, San Patricio, Aransas, and Refugio.

Ingleside on the Bay Coastal Watch Association has placed several air monitors at locations throughout the bay to collect data on relevant air quality variables, including particulate matter. Both NO2 and O3 air pollution within Corpus Christi fall below nationwide legal acceptable limits based on current air monitor data, 50 ppb and 70 ppb respectively.

Particulate Matter 2.5 can be harmful as small particles enter your bloodstream and lungs, causing adverse health impacts. According to the EPA, these impacts can include irregularities for the heart, decreased lung function, and even premature death for those with underlying heart or lung conditions. All 10 air monitoring sites with PM 2.5 data fall above the annual recommended limit from the World Health Organization of 5. This is especially concerning considering outlier events such as oil spills or flares from current industry, as well as proposed future development in the area.