Since e-commerce took a temporary big jump at the beginning of the pandemic, large companies like Amazon and Walmart have raced to obtain distribution points in cities to enable easier same-day and next-day consumer deliveries.

However, the constant traffic has created ongoing clouds of diesel truck exhaust that have an impact on public health. Lawmakers are focusing more on addressing concerns over consumer health impacts. New York is the latest example with a proposal to regulate emissions of warehouses larger than 50,000 square feet.

Historically, it was visible when pollution became too bad and local, state, or federal regulators had to mandate changes. In the mid-20th century, Pittsburgh had the nickname “Smoke City” after a century of heavy pollution and a sky that was dark at all hours. Through local efforts, Pittsburgh saw a 90% decrease in smoke pollution.