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Air Pollution... What You Can Do
There are many ways to reduce air pollution. Here are a few tips that would help.
Behind the Wheel
On hot, sunny days, when conditions are conducive to pollution...
- Consider ways to limit your driving. If it's practical, walk, share a ride, ride a bike or use public transportation. And avoid unnecessary trips by combining errands.
- Don't let your car idle for long periods of time when stopped in traffic or waiting in line at a drive-through window. Turn off the motor, even if it is just for a few minutes.
- Avoid driving during rush hour, if possible. Your employer already may encourage flexible work schedules, which can cut auto emissions, not to mention stress and commuting time.
Always...
- Keep your car well tuned, clean your fuel filters, reduce unnecessary weight and monitor your gasoline mileage. These simple steps will help keep your car running efficiently, which not only reduces pollution but also saves you money!
- Have your car's emission controls checked yearly to ensure they are working properly.
- When filling your gas tank, don't pull the vapor-catcher back from the nozzle, and don't "top off the tank" by pulling the nozzle out. This will help minimize emissions.
- Save fuel and minimize emissions by avoiding sudden acceleration and unnecessary braking. Drive at steady speeds and don't rev the engine when idling.
- Keep your tires properly inflated, balanced and rotated. This will not only boost gas mileage but also extend the life of your tires. Remember that radial tires produce less air pollution than bias-ply tires.
At Home
Conserving energy saves you money and reduces pollution created when electricity is generated. Conserve by:
- Turning off lights.
- Selecting energy-efficient appliances.
- Using air conditioning only when it's necessary.
Other tips:
- • Never burn leaves, branches and other debris in your yard. Burning this material produces harmful emissions that can contribute to air pollution.
- • Participate in recycling programs. Recycling keeps trash out of incinerators and reduces emissions associated with burning solid waste.
Consumers, you have the right to a healthy and sustainable environment. Get involved. Protect yourself against environmental dangers.
Remember, the power is yours!
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