Individuals Can Make Impact on Ozone Levels
June 29, 2007, BOULDER - Individual and corporate
participation in the
Clean Air Challenge can significantly
improve ozone levels in the community. Of the many sources
of pollution, vehicles emit the largest percentage of the
pollutants that combine to form ground-level ozone. They are
also responsible for more than a quarter of annual CO2
(carbon dioxide) emissions - the primary "greenhouse" gas.
"Individuals may not feel that using alternative
transportation just a couple days a week can make a
difference," said Gabi Hoefler, Environmental Health
Specialist for Boulder County Public Health (BCPH). "The
truth is, it can."
Beginning June 27 through August 31, participants that
find alternative forms of transportation to work earn one
point for every day that alternative transportation is used.
Each participant is then entered into a drawing for grand
prize - an electric bike. There are also many other prizes
just for participating.
In 2006, the efforts of the Clean Air Challenge
participants impacted the air quality, climate, and quality
of life in Boulder County by collectively reducing ozone
emissions by 746 lbs. and reducing average vehicle travel
miles by nearly 134,000 miles (40%) during the contest
period.
"In recent years, the highest ozone levels have occurred
between June 15-July 31," said Pam Milmoe, BCPH Air Quality
Program Coordinator. "And the transportation sector accounts
for more than one-quarter (27%) of total U.S. greenhouse gas
emissions. That's why it's so important that community
members get involved with events like the Clean Air
Challenge."
Ground-level ozone is formed when emissions from everyday
activities, such as driving, operating lawn equipment, using
household paints, and industry activities, combine with
other pollutants to "cook" in the heat and sunlight. This is
not the same as the atmospheric layer of ozone that protects
us from the sun.
Recent studies suggest that even the current health-based
standard may not be protective of health in adults, and
ozone concentrations as low as 64 ppb (parts per billion)
can affect sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly,
and people with asthma. The Denver Metro Area exceeded the
64 ppb standard 100 days in 2006. Typically, half of all
summer days reach this level.
Breathing ozone can trigger a variety of health problems,
including chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, and
congestion. It can worsen bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma.
Ground-level ozone also can reduce lung function and may
permanently scar the lungs. Aside from industry and energy
use, vehicle emissions are the second largest contributor to
CO2 emissions.
"Combating global warming requires finding alternative
fuels to gasoline and increased fuel efficiency, but it also
requires less driving, said Hoefler. "Everyone can make a
difference with a few easy lifestyle changes, including
using less energy and driving less."
For more information, visit the
Clean Air
Challenge or call the BCPH
Environmental Health Division at 303-441-1564. |
