Phoenix (July 5, 2023) - The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) announces the launch of the "Commit to One Day, Help Keep Ozone Away," summer campaign to educate county residents about the negative impacts of ground-level ozone on air quality and public health. MCAQD urges residents to make a commitment at least one day a week to improve air quality and help the community breathe easier.
Ground-level ozone is a harmful pollutant that forms when emissions from cars, trucks, and industrial facilities react with sunlight. Exposure to ground-level ozone can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, and can also cause shortness of breath, coughing, and throat irritation.
Maricopa County is committed to its effort to reduce ground-level ozone and improve air quality. Due to its unique geographical and meteorological conditions, the region is prone to high levels of ozone pollution, especially during the summer months. MCAQD is actively working to tackle this problem by continually enacting clean air policies and implementing programs, such as the Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Plan. The goal of the EV Infrastructure Plan is to convert a portion of Maricopa County's gas-fueled fleet to electric-powered vehicles by 2026, reducing vehicle emissions.
According to Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman, District 4, Clint Hickman, “The Commit to One Day, Help Keep Ozone Away campaign aims to elevate the well-being of every member of the community, prioritizing clean air and encouraging everyone to work together to ensure all residents can enjoy living in a healthy and safe environment.”
To reduce the negative impacts of ground-level ozone pollution, MCAQD encourages the following Ozone pollution prevention tips:
• Promote remote. Telework to reduce traffic.
• Drive less. When possible, carpool, van pool, or use public transportation.
• Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines. Park your car and go inside.
• Ride your bike or walk to work.
• Refuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours.
• Use low-VOC or water-based paints, stains, finishes and paint strippers.
• Delay painting projects until High Pollution Advisories have passed.
MCAQD Director, Philip McNeely states, “Improved air quality is being achieved in Maricopa County through education, regulation, and incentive programs. The community’s participation is essential in the reduction of ground-level ozone. Committing to simple daily habit changes can reduce emissions and provide a significant contribution toward attaining cleaner air.”
The Commit to One Day, Help Keep Ozone Away campaign is part of MCAQD's ongoing efforts to promote clean air and a healthier environment for Maricopa residents. For more information on the campaign and ways to reduce ground-level ozone pollution, visit Maricopa.gov/aq.
Download the Commit to One Day campaign toolkit>>
Media Contact [English/Español]:
Ari Halpert
Communications Department Officer
602-501-1266
Ari.Halpert@maricopa.gov
About Maricopa County Air Quality Department
MCAQD’s mission is to improve the air of Maricopa County so customers, residents, and visitors can live, work, and play in a healthy environment. MCAQD is governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and follows air quality standards set forth by the federal Clean Air Act. For air quality information and resources, visit CleanAirMakeMore.com.
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