by Azure Hall, air quality outreach assistant
Along with camping trips and backyard barbeques, spring and summer usher in a period known as “Ozone Season.” From May to October, rising temperatures meet pollutants from vehicles, industrial buildings, and other sources to create ground-level ozone. Unlike the protective ozone layer high in the atmosphere, ground-level ozone is harmful to breathe and impacts air quality. Poor air quality can impact anyone in our community, but particularly young children, older adults, and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Fortunately, small daily actions can have a big impact on air quality during Ozone Season.
Reducing emissions during ozone season is key to creating cleaner, healthier communities for everyone. Here are some simple steps you can take to help reduce air pollution during Ozone Season.
1. Drive Less Whenever Possible
Vehicle emissions are one of the biggest contributors to ozone pollution. Consider carpooling, combining errands, walking or biking when possible, using public transport, and working remotely. Cutting out a few drives each week makes a difference.
2. Avoid Idling Your Vehicle
Just five minutes of idling releases enough air pollution to fill 150 balloons! Turning your engine off while waiting not only saves fuel but also saves our air.
3. Limit Use of Gas-Powered Lawn Equipment
Lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and other gas-powered tools can also contribute to ground-level ozone. Mow the lawn after 5 p.m. if you still use gas-powered equipment. Even better, upgrade your old gas lawn mower, trimmer, or leaf blower to a new electric one with a 30% state discount at participating retailers! (good through December 31, 2026).
4. Refuel in the Evening
Gasoline vapors also contribute to ozone formation. Refueling after 5 p.m. reduces the amount of ozone contribution by avoiding the hottest part of the day. Consider a low- or zero-emissions vehicle, like an electric vehicle (EV), when it’s time to purchase a new vehicle.
5. Conserve Electricity
Excess strain on power grids contributes to ground-level ozone production as well. Do your part to conserve energy by turning off lights when not in use, using fans instead of air conditioning, running household appliances in the evening, and unplugging anything you’re not using. These little habits build up over time to make a big impact.
Improving air quality is a shared responsibility. Schools, businesses, local governments, and residents all play an important role in reducing pollution during ozone season. When communities work together, even small actions can lead to noticeable change.