Ways to Reduce Air Pollutio

Ways to Reduce Air Pollution
We make choices everyday that can help reduce air pollution. Below are a few ideas that you can take to help clean our air.

At Home

    Conserve energy - turn off appliances and lights when you leave the room.
    Recycle paper, plastic, glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminum cans. (This conserves energy and reduces production emissions.)
    Keep woodstoves and fireplaces well maintained. You should also consider replacing old wood stoves with EPA-certified models
    Plant deciduous trees in locations around your home to provide shade in the summer, but to allow light in the winter.
    Buy green electricity-produced by low-or even zero-pollution facilities.
    Connect your outdoor lights to a timer or use solar lighting.
    Wash clothes with warm or cold water instead of hot.
    Lower the thermostat on your water heater to 120F.
    Use low-VOC or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.
    Test your home for radon-a dangerous, radioactive gas that is odorless and tasteless. If the test shows elevated levels of radon, the problem can be fixed cost effectively.
    Choose not to smoke in your home, especially if you have children. If you or your visitors must smoke, then smoke outside.

Drive Wise

Plan your trips. Save gasoline and reduce air pollution.

    Keep tires properly inflated and aligned.
    In the summertime, fill gas tank during cooler evening hours to cut down on evaporation. Avoid spilling gas and don't "top off" the tank. Replace gas tank cap tightly.
    Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at fast-food restaurants or banks. Park your car and go in.
    When possible, use public transportation, walk, or ride a bike