A Network Analysis of PM 2.5 Pollution in Santiago: Which Locations Have the Biggest Impact on Pollution Levels?

Abstract

Air pollution and, in particular, PM 2.5 particulate matter is a significant issue in Santiago, the capital of Chile. Santiago's pollution problem is exacerbated by its unique geographic location nestled against the Andes mountain range in the central valley of Chile. This paper uses network models, first developed to analyse linkages and systemic risk in the financial system, to identify those locations in the city that are most systemically important for explaining PM 2.5 level across the city. High average concentrations are associated with both systemically important locations and those that are most sensitive to pollution arriving from other locations. A detailed picture of the links across the city can help direct official efforts to combat pollution.