07/31/2026
Part Three in our Air Quality improvements we all can do:
You Can Help Keep the Air Cleaner -- Every Day!
Air pollution can affect your health and the environment. There are actions every one of us can take to reduce air pollution and keep the air cleaner, and precautionary measures you can take to protect your health.
Transportation Tips: Use clean, efficient, and sustainable ways to get around. Consider eco-friendly modes of transportation when traveling short distances such as riding a bike or walking. Both options are better for the environment and good for your health, generally, as long as the air quality index is below 100. Public transportation options such as the bus or train are efficient as well. Carpooling with a colleague, friend, or neighbor helps to reduce traffic congestion and per person emissions, especially in urban areas.
If you must use a vehicle, consider an electric, hybrid, or smaller vehicle that is more environmentally friendly and less polluting. They generally cost less to fuel and operate, too.
Remember electric vehicles (EVs) have no tailpipe emissions, which does enable deep cuts to greenhouse gas emissions. For more information, check out EPA’s EV Myths page.
Drive sensibly - Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration, and hard braking) can lower your gas mileage 15% to 40%. Burn Wise/Lawn and Garden Tips: Mulch or compost leaves and yard waste.
Conserve electricity and set your air conditioner at a higher temperature = 76 degrees in summer and 68 in winter.
Refuel cars and trucks after dusk. Combine errands and reduce trips.
Use household, workshop, and garden chemicals in ways that keep evaporation to a minimum or try to delay using them when poor air quality is forecast. Avoid using gas-powered lawn and garden equipment. Avoid burning leaves, trash and other materials, compost instead.
