The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) is highlighting Air Quality Awareness Week to emphasize the significance of clean air for health, the environment, and the economy. This initiative aligns with efforts across the nation to promote awareness.
Governor Josh Stein has officially declared May 5-9 as Air Quality Awareness Week in North Carolina. His proclamation acknowledges significant achievements over recent decades:
– For nearly ten years, North Carolina has met every National Ambient Air Quality Standard.
– Emissions of hazardous and toxic air pollutants have decreased by more than 100 million pounds since 1993, a reduction of 79%.
– The state has cut net emissions of greenhouse gases by 38% from 2005 to 2020.
– Outdoor visibility on hazy days has improved by up to 49 miles since 2000.
“Clean air is a critical part of our quality of life and economic strength,” said Governor Josh Stein. “That is why I was glad to proclaim May 5-9 as Air Quality Awareness Week. We’re going to continue to take steps to safeguard our air in North Carolina because everyone needs to have clean air to breathe.”
DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson added, “At DEQ, we work every day to safeguard our air quality to protect people’s health. As we celebrate Air Quality Awareness Week and the progress our state has made, we’re reminded of the importance of ensuring that every North Carolinian can breathe clean air every day.”
Throughout this week, DEQ will provide information on its website and social media about improvements in air quality and resources concerning pollutants like particulate matter from wildfire smoke and ground-level ozone. DAQ will also honor regional winners of its annual AQ-IQ contest for seventh-grade students.
Despite notable improvements in air quality across North Carolina, occasional days still pose risks due to elevated pollution levels. Residents are encouraged to use the Air Quality Portal for daily forecasts that can guide their outdoor activities.
