A new year calls for new experiences and plenty of learning opportunities. This year, we encourage you to learn more about initiatives and why these efforts play a huge role in keeping our air clean in the North Texas region, so stick around to find out why!
Since 2012, ten counties in North Texas have fallen under nonattainment for the pollutant ozone, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). North Texas must meet ozone emissions standards as set by the EPA or face federal sanctions. The Air North Texas campaign was created to help alleviate the air quality problem in our region.
Air Quality’s Impact on Health
Clean Air Fund reports that 7 million people die each year due to air pollution. Inhaling ground-level ozone poses risks, especially for those with asthma or respiratory issues. While young children are vulnerable to developing health problems associated with ozone exposure, even those without pre-existing respiratory problems could experience health effects such as coughing, throat irritation, chest tightening, pain when taking a breath, and shortness of breath.
Enhancing our air quality has the potential to improve the lives of individuals with chronic lung conditions by reducing the symptoms they experience while inhaling ground-level ozone.
Ways to Contribute
You can make a positive impact by choosing clean and renewable energy sources, as well as reducing your energy consumption. During the summer, energy demand in Texas increases due to heat which poses a risk of outages on the power grid. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) provides alerts and encourages residents to avoid excessive air conditioning usage during peak hours.
According to the EPA, the transportation sector is responsible for approximately 45% of nitrogen oxides (NOx) total emissions inventory in the U.S. This sector also releases air toxins, which are compounds that are known or suspected to cause cancer or other serious health and environmental effects. Exposure to traffic emissions has been linked to many adverse health effects including premature deaths, cardiac symptoms, exacerbation of asthma symptoms, diminished lung function, and increased hospitalization.
Shifting to public transportation modes during high traffic congestion periods can significantly improve our air quality. According to the Federal Transit Administration, the U.S. saves 37 million metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. Not only does it help reduce traffic congestion and reduce air pollution, but it also aids physically inactive individuals to achieve the daily recommended level of physical activity based on an article by the National Library of Medicine.
Whether it’s simple lifestyle changes or community wide efforts, individuals, businesses, and local municipalities can make a difference in the air we breathe.
Become a Partner
With more than 30 partners, Air North Texas stresses the importance of clean air initiatives. Partners are vital in educating residents and spreading awareness to achieve better air quality in the region. If you know an organization whose passions align with ours, consider learning more about becoming a partner in our mission.