The Battle Against Ozone Pollution in Maricopa County
In Maricopa County, the sunny and hot weather might be a delight for many, but it also sets the stage for increased levels of ground-level ozone. This pollutant forms when vehicle emissions, gasoline-powered tools, and industrial outputs interact with sunlight, posing health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.
The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) has launched the “Commit to One Day” initiative, urging residents to adopt cleaner air practices at least once a week to curb emissions and enhance air quality.
To facilitate this, MCAQD is promoting several practical programs:
Mowing Down Pollution Program: Residents and commercial landscapers can swap their gas-powered lawn equipment for electric alternatives at select Home Depot stores.
Care for Clean Air, Be Idle Free: This program encourages drivers to turn off their engines during prolonged stops, such as in school pickup lanes, drive-thrus, and parking areas.
MCAQD Director Philip McNeely emphasizes collective effort, stating, “Improving air quality takes all of us working together. Small actions, even one day a week, can make a meaningful difference in reducing ozone pollution and protecting the health of our communities.”
MCAQD Strategies to Reduce Ozone Pollution
Residents are encouraged to:
- Carpool, use vanpools, bike, walk, or rely on public transport.
- Opt for telecommuting when feasible to cut down on vehicle use.
- Limit unnecessary idling and avoid long drive-thru lines.
- Refuel vehicles after sunset or during cooler evening hours.
- Switch to electric lawn and garden tools instead of gas-powered ones.
- Select low-VOC or water-based paints, stains, and cleaning products.
- Postpone painting or solvent-based projects during High Pollution Advisories.
For more information on the “Help Keep Ozone Away, Commit to One Day!” campaign, visit Maricopa.gov/AQCommit.
Download the Commit to One Day campaign toolkit>>
About Maricopa County Air Quality Department
The mission of MCAQD is to enhance air quality in Maricopa County, ensuring a healthy environment for residents, visitors, and businesses. Governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, it adheres to air quality standards set by the federal Clean Air Act. For further information, visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.
Stay connected with MCAQD through Instagram, X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and LinkedIn.
Download MCAQD’s Clean Air app. It is free and available on the App Store for iPhone and iPad, and on Google Play for Android.
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