Clean Air Month Highlights Florida's Exceptional Air Quality

Press Release Banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 19, 2017

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 146 cities across 24 counties that rank among the cleanest air nationwide.

"Florida's air quality continues to be among the nation's cleanest year after year," said DEP Interim Secretary Ryan Matthews. "I encourage all Florida residents and visitors to celebrate by enjoying Florida's clean air outdoors."

Emissions of key industrial pollutants contributing to the formation of ozone and fine particulate matter continue to decline in Florida – a 70 percent reduction since 1995.

Florida has one of the most robust air quality monitoring networks in the country, covering nearly 92 percent of the state’s more than 20 million residents. The network, which provides scientists with the valuable data needed to ensure Florida's air quality is in compliance with federal standards, is comprised of more than 220 monitors at 101 sites.

"The department works every day to monitor air quality and ensure compliance of regulated facilities," said Jeff Koerner, 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, 37 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 outdoor activities are 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 Fact Sheet.