Clean Air Action Day 2024 on June 7 in North Texas is an annual event that holds particular significance this year due to the area’s longstanding status in federal clean air non-attainment,  indicating a failure to meet the required standards for air quality set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Addressing this issue is crucial not only for environmental and public health, but also for ensuring a better quality of life for North Texans.

Health, Environmental and Economic Impacts

Poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues such as asthma and bronchitis, and exacerbate conditions like heart disease and allergies. North Texas has seen a rise in air pollution levels due to increased traffic, industrial emissions and other factors. Air pollution can harm plants, animals and entire ecosystems. In North Texas, where the natural landscape is a valuable resource, protecting air quality is essential for preserving the beauty and health of the region. Substandard air quality can lead to increased healthcare costs, as well as harm agriculture and industry by damaging crops and reducing productivity.

In 2020 alone, reductions in air pollution prevented more than 230,000 premature deaths, 200,000 heart attacks, 120,000 emergency room visits, and 17 million lost workdays. The impact of air quality on climate change cannot be underestimated. Many pollutants that contribute to poor air quality such as carbon dioxide and methane are also potent greenhouse gases.

A changing climate is expected to cause earlier and longer springs and summers, warmer temperatures, precipitation changes, and higher carbon dioxide concentration.  – some of which we’re already seeing.  Some of these changes can increase people’s exposure to pollen and other airborne allergens, which in turn can lead to more allergy-related illnesses, such as asthma and hay fever.

In many areas of the country, climate change is expected to worsen harmful ground-level ozone, increase the potency of certain allergens like pollen, and contribute to worsening air quality and can also decrease visibility.  North Texas can help mitigate the effects of climate change and work toward a more sustainable future.

Everyday Actions Can Improve Air Quality

While large-scale initiatives and policies play a significant role in improving air quality, everyday actions taken by individuals can also make a meaningful impact. North Texas residents can contribute to cleaner air by making consistent small changes in their daily lives that add up over time.

Transportation choices: One of the biggest sources of air pollution is vehicle emissions. By opting for carpooling, using public transportation, biking or walking when possible, individuals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. Even combining errands to make fewer trips can help.

Remote work and flexible hours: For those that have the option, working from home or shifting work hours can help reduce traffic congestion during peak times, which reduces emissions.

Energy conservation: Simple habits such as turning off lights, appliances and electronics when not in use and using energy-efficient devices can decrease the demand for electricity that often comes from fossil fuel sources.

Use of electric or manual lawn equipment: Switching from gas-powered to electric or manual lawn tools can reduce the emissions released into the air.

Avoiding idling: Idling vehicles produce unnecessary emissions. Turning off the engine when waiting in the car for extended periods can make a difference. Some models from Volkswagen have an automatic Stop/Start idling function that accomplishes this.

How These Actions Help

People can help reduce the percentage of ground-level ozone and particulate matter in the air, two major pollutants contributing to the non-attainment status, by taking these actions. Improved air quality can lead to fewer health problems related to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, as well as economic savings and better quality of life overall.

By consistently taking small steps in their daily lives, individuals can set a positive example for others, encouraging more widespread community participation in clean air efforts. These everyday changes also help create a culture of environmental responsibility that can lead to long-term benefits for the region.

For ways to participate, visit AirNorthTexas.org.