Clearing the Air: The War on Smog
In 1943, dark, smoky clouds enveloped Los Angeles, causing residents to complain of burning eyes, nausea, and difficulty breathing. The source of the smog was a mystery. CLEARING THE AIR: THE WAR ON SMOG is the story of the epic struggle for clean air, involving years of scientific study and civic pressure that would lead to the creation of the EPA and the Clean Air Act. From AMERICAN EXPERIENCE.
Previews + Extras
Trailer | Clearing the Air: The War on Smog
S37 E4 - 2m 22s
Watch a preview of Clearing the Air: The War on Smog.
Chapter 1 | Clearing the Air: The War on Smog
S37 E4 - 8m 41s
Watch a preview of Clearing the Air: The War on Smog.
Smog on the Big Screen from Blade Runner to Godzilla
S37 E4 - 4m 34s
Smog was pervasive in mid-century Los Angeles—so it’s no wonder that this real-life threat made it into Hollywood films. We spoke with authors Robin Murray and Joseph Heumann about the smog-filled movie scenes where environmental anxiety took a terrifying turn.
The mystery of L.A.’s smog revealed
S37 E4 - 4m 58s
The major breakthrough in understanding L.A.'s deadly smog came from a surprising place.
The Secret Hollywood Campaign to Clean L.A'.s Air
S37 E4 - 4m 57s
To bring attention to the smog issue plaguing their city in the mid 20th century, Angelenos got creative.
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