FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 19, 2016

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

CLEAN AIR MONTH HIGHLIGHTS
FLORIDA'S EXCEPTIONAL AIR QUALITY

~Enjoy Florida's many outdoor activities while breathing air that's among
the country's cleanest~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Governor Rick Scott proclaimed May as Clean Air Month, recognizing Florida's air as among the nation's cleanest. According to the American Lung Association's most recent "State of the Air" report, Florida boasts 10 counties that rank among the cleanest nationwide – more than any other state. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection invites residents and visitors to celebrate by enjoying Florida's clean air outdoors.

"Clean Air Month is an ideal time to recognize the many efforts Florida has taken to reduce pollution statewide and preserve our air quality," said DEP Secretary Jon Steverson. "Air emissions from Florida's industrial facilities continue to be among the lowest in the state's history."

During the past three years, the department's Division of Air Resource Management has invested nearly $1.5 million to modernize Florida's air monitoring network, making it one of the most robust networks in the country. This network provides scientists with the valuable data needed to ensure Florida's air quality is in compliance with federal standards. Emissions of key industrial pollutants contributing to the formation of ozone and fine particulate matter continue to decline in Florida – a 63-percent reduction since 1985.

"The department works every day to monitor air quality and ensure compliance of regulated facilities," said Justin Green, director of the Division of Air Resource Management. "Florida residents and visitors can breathe easy knowing that local and state air program professionals are working hard to ensure Florida's air remains clean."

With 174 state parks and trails, 35 state forests and hundreds of city and county parks providing an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, clean air is a critical component to exploring and enjoying all that Florida's natural beauty has to offer. Florida's exceptional air quality ensures that recreating and exercising outdoors is enjoyable for everyone.

The department's Spatial Air Quality System allows citizens to access updated air-quality data as reported by its statewide network of air-quality monitors. Additional information is available through Florida's Air Quality factsheet. 

About the Florida Department of Environmental Protection

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is the state’s principal environmental agency,
created to protect, conserve and manage Florida’s environment and natural resources. The department enforces federal and state environmental laws, protects Florida’s air and water quality, cleans up pollution, regulates solid waste management, promotes pollution prevention and acquires environmentally sensitive lands for preservation. The agency also maintains a statewide system of parks, trails and aquatic preserves.

Visit the department’s website at www.dep.state.fl.us.