The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reminding New Englanders to utilize free air quality monitoring tools this summer to stay informed and take necessary health precautions. As part of Air Quality Awareness Week from May 6 to 10, 2024, EPA and the New England states are offering resources for the public to monitor the latest air quality forecasts.
EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash emphasized the importance of individual actions in reducing emissions that contribute to air pollution, stating, "When air quality is poor, we can all take individual actions to reduce our emissions that contribute to air pollution, such as reducing energy use and driving less."
The EPA highlighted the impact of warm summer temperatures on the formation of ground-level ozone, with an ozone standard set at 0.070 parts per million. Despite a decrease in unhealthy ozone days over the years, climate change is expected to increase poor air quality events, particularly with the rise in wildfires.
To address pollution sources contributing to smog formation, the EPA provided a list of actions that everyone can take to reduce air pollution, such as using public transportation, carpooling, and avoiding the use of small gasoline-powered engines. The agency also emphasized the importance of reducing household energy usage during poor air quality events.
EPA's efforts to improve air quality include federal plans to cut pollution from power plants and industrial sources, as well as the implementation of new vehicle standards to reduce harmful air pollutant emissions.
The EPA urged those who are active outdoors and individuals with respiratory diseases to be especially cautious during poor air quality days, recommending limitations on strenuous outdoor activities. Tools and information for monitoring air quality, including real-time ozone data and air quality forecasts, are available on EPA's website and through the AirNow app.
As New Englanders prepare for the summer months, staying informed about air quality and taking proactive steps to reduce emissions can help protect public health and improve overall air quality in the region.
