Study finds fast EV charging stations increase airborne particles near sites.
Electric vehicle charging stations are often seen as part of the solution for reducing emissions, but recent research suggests they may come with an unexpected problem. A study from the University of California, Los Angeles, reports that public fast-charging stations have higher levels of certain airborne particles compared to nearby areas, and in some cases, even more than gas stations.
Researchers examined 50 direct current fast-charging sites across Los Angeles and compared air quality measurements to other urban locations. The findings showed that the concentration of fine particulate matter near these charging stations was consistently higher, with some readings surpassing the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines for a 24-hour period. While the goal of installing these chargers is to support cleaner transportation, the study suggests there are localized air quality concerns that need attention.
The source of this pollution is not exhaust fumes, as one might expect with gas stations, but rather brake dust and particles from tire wear. Electric vehicles tend to wear tires faster than traditional cars because of their heavier weight and strong torque. As drivers pull in and out of charging stations, these particles accumulate in the surrounding environment. The study indicates that the fans inside the charging units, designed to prevent overheating during use, can stir these particles into the air, increasing the amount people breathe in while nearby.
Measurements included particle size distribution, mass concentration, and other pollutant levels to provide a detailed picture of the exposure risk. The research team noted that the issue seems to be linked to the infrastructure itself, not to the number of cars being charged at a given time. Even when multiple cars were plugged in, the particulate levels did not change significantly. This suggests that the primary factor may be the airflow from the chargers and the accumulation of debris in those areas.
To provide context, researchers compared their findings with air quality readings from eight gas stations and local monitoring sites. Surprisingly, the results showed that some EV charging stations had slightly worse air quality than gas stations, though both were higher than urban background levels. This raises concerns about placing these chargers near schools, senior living facilities, or areas where people might spend time outdoors while their vehicles charge.
The report does not suggest that electric vehicle charging is inherently harmful or that the technology should be abandoned. Instead, it calls for better design and engineering practices for future stations. Suggestions include adding air filters to power cabinets and setting minimum height requirements for air intake and exhaust systems to help reduce particle spread. Some companies, such as ChargePoint, have already begun implementing changes along these lines. Researchers also recommend considering air quality impact during the site selection process for new chargers, particularly in communities with vulnerable populations.
Although this study points to an overlooked source of air pollution, it also highlights a relatively simple path to improvement. Unlike tailpipe emissions, which require large-scale changes to fuel systems and engine design, controlling particle emissions at charging stations could be addressed with targeted upgrades. By implementing these solutions, the environmental benefits of electric vehicles can be maintained without introducing new risks to public health.
This research serves as a reminder that clean energy infrastructure must account for all aspects of environmental impact, not just carbon emissions. As more people switch to electric vehicles and the number of charging stations continues to grow, addressing these findings early could prevent long-term problems and ensure the transition to electric mobility delivers on its promise of cleaner air for everyone.
Sources:
EV Charging Stations Have Increased Levels of Some Airborne Pollutants: Report
UCLA team finds high levels of particulates in air near electric vehicle fast charging stations
Join the conversation!