Air Improvement Relief Effort (AIRE) Program Survey Results

The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (SDAPCD) surveyed households who applied to receive a free air purifier through the Air Improvement Relief Effort (AIRE) Program. The AIRE program was launched in early 2024 to help improve indoor air quality for South Bay residents impacted by the hydrogen sulfide odors caused by the wastewater and sewage flows near the Tijuana River Valley.

The survey was sent to recipients that had received an air purifier from program inception to July to learn if the free air purifiers that were distributed improved indoor air quality. Participation in the survey was voluntary, and recipients shared their experiences since using the air purifiers.

The survey consisted of questions that covered the use of the purifier, notable health improvements, and odor reduction. Common responses from participants found that the air purifiers vastly improved indoor air quality, respiratory comfort, sleep, and related symptoms. To read the key highlights click here.

While not a permanent fix, the air purifiers help improve indoor day-to-day comfort as longer-term solutions continue to advance. To read the full Survey Report click here.

AIRE Distribution Event 

In partnership with San Diego County Supervisor Paloma Aguirre and other community partners, a drive-thru air purifier distribution event was held on December 8^th for South Bay residents as part of the AIRE Program.

Residents who had applied to the AIRE were offered the opportunity to switch their delivery method and pick up their air purifiers in person. Almost 200 air purifiers were distributed and loaded directly into AIRE recipient vehicles.

Hydrogen Sulfide Advisory Alerts Available by Text

H₂S (Hydrogen Sulfide) Advisory Alerts can now be received by text message. South Bay communities can stay informed of increased Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) levels in their neighborhood by subscribing to text notifications.

Advisories are issued when H₂S levels are elevated to unhealthy levels in communities impacted by the wastewater and sewage flows near the Tijuana River Valley. H₂S Advisories are sent via text and email message notifications, and H₂S updates are sent via email notifications.

SDAPCD Adopts 2026-30 Long-Term Strategic Plan

The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (SDAPCD) has adopted the 2026-2030 Long-Term Strategic Plan. The Long-Term Strategic Plan will help shape the district’s direction for the next four years to better serve San Diego County.

The Long-Term Strategic Plan was developed based on the feedback received from residents, stakeholders, and community partners to best allocate SDAPCD resources.

It is organized around SDAPCD’s overarching goals of Air Quality, Public Health, Environmental Justice and Equity, Public Engagement and Transparency, and Operational Excellence. These themes serve as guiding principles for developing the objectives and actions proposed in this Long-Term Strategic Plan, focusing on emission reductions, public health improvements, equitable access to clean air, meaningful public engagement, and operational efficiency.

Application Submittal for Commercial Charbroiling Operations

Owners and operators of new and existing chain-driven charbroilers must submit an application to be in compliance with Rule 67.26 - Commercial Charbroiling Operations. Rule 67.26 aims to reduce emissions of PM2.5 (Particulate Matter) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), and applies to all chain-driven charbroilers commonly used in fast food restaurants across San Diego County.

Applications are due by August 14, 2026.