Lead Pollution Has Dropped 100-Fold in the US Over the Last Century
New research shows that lead pollution in the United States has decreased by a factor of 100 over the past century, marking a major environmental health victory.
EnvironmentGNGV Editorial Team4 min readLast reviewed September 28, 2026
Lead pollution in the United States has dropped by a staggering 100-fold over the past century, according to new research — a testament to the power of environmental regulation and public health advocacy.
The dramatic decline began after lead was banned from gasoline and paint. Scientists say this represents one of the greatest environmental health successes in American history.
"This shows what we can accomplish when we take environmental health seriously," said the lead researcher. "The phase-out of leaded gasoline alone is estimated to have increased average IQ scores and saved billions in healthcare costs."
