YPIE Scientist: Helena Cruz

Research: Predicting Air Quality for Climate Justice

Research Location: Yonkers, NY

Mentor: Matthew Brunelle, Kensho Inc.

Awards: WESEF 2026 Participant, Bedford 2030 Greenlight Awards 2025, Regeneron Science Talent Search 2025, Participant at Somers Science Fair 2024

Abstract:

Extreme heat is becoming a growing concern due to climate change, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. This study investigates the relationship between heat and environmental factors in Yonkers, New York, to propose targeted interventions to reduce health risks. Using temperature data collected from public weather sites like the EPA and NOAA, combined with air quality PM2.5, this research aimed to assess the impact of heat on different communities. Correlation and regression models were performed to examine the relationship between temperature, air quality, and demographic factors. Model A (Summer 2024) found a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.607, p < 0.05), indicating that poorer air quality was associated with higher temperatures during warm months. However, Model B (2014–2024) revealed a weak long-term correlation (r = -0.157), suggesting that temperature alone accounts for only a small fraction of overall air quality variability. These findings suggest that while temperature is a significant short-term driver of air quality spikes (e.g., in summer), the long-term AQI variability is influenced by multiple factors. To further address environmental inequities, geospatial mapping techniques were used to create accessibility maps of income, ethnicity, asthma prevalence, and urban heat islands, revealing that the most at-risk areas showed a strong spatial overlap of these factors, highlighting how vulnerability is interconnected. The study concludes that an effective public health approach requires implementing time-sensitive responses to mitigate combined risks during heat waves while simultaneously addressing long-term pollutants through comprehensive policies.

About this Scientist:   

Helena Cruz is a senior who is currently pursuing her IB Diploma at Yonkers High School. She will be attending Lehigh University in the fall, majoring in Biostatistics and Health Data Science, with a minor in Environmental Health, and is enrolled in a 4+1 program to earn a Master of Public Health. After college, she plans to pursue a PhD, aiming to become a researcher and professor who uses data-driven approaches to influence policy and develop long-term solutions that address health disparities in vulnerable communities.

Presentation Slides