FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 7, 2018
DEP Celebrates Clean Air Month
~Florida's vast outdoor activities depend on maintaining clean air~
TALLAHASSEE,
Fla. – Recognizing the importance of clean air for Florida’s public health, environment and economy, Governor Rick Scott has proclaimed
May as Clean Air Month. The Florida Department
of Environmental Protection consistently works to protect and improve Florida
air quality, helping ensure Florida’s air is among the cleanest in the nation.
“Maintaining good air quality is vital to our
state’s public health and natural resources — which is why it is a focus of the work we do at DEP,” said Jeff Koerner, director of DEP's Division of Air Resources Management. “By monitoring air quality, promoting pollution prevention, and coordinating with local, state and federal clean air programs, Florida continues to enjoy some of the cleanest air on record."
Industrial emissions that contribute to the formation of ozone and fine particulate matter have declined 75 percent since 1995, and are continuing to decline. These reductions have led to significant improvements in Florida’s air quality and
have resulted in Florida meeting the new 2015 federal ozone standard statewide.
Florida has one of the
most robust air quality monitoring networks in the country. The network includes more than 211 monitors at 99 sites, and provides scientists with the data needed to ensure Florida's air quality is in
compliance with federal standards.The department's Spatial Air Quality System allows everyone to access updated air quality data as
reported by the statewide network.
Because the success of this work depends on public awareness, DEP is launching a Clean Air Florida initiative this month to help educate Florida’s residents and visitors on clean air, pollutants, and the science behind maintaining good air quality in Florida.
Clean Air Month reminds Floridians that we can all take simple steps to help in this effort:
- Change home air conditioner filters monthly. The system will run more efficiently year-round and use less energy.
- Plant a tree in honor of Clean Air Month. Trees play a vital role in cleaning our air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also save energy by providing shade in the summer and allowing sunlight in the winter.
- Properly inflate tires to improve gas mileage and reduce emissions.
Florida is known for its natural resources, such as our world-famous beaches and springs, and the abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities these resources provide. Nowhere is this more evident than in the state’s 41 aquatic preserves, and 175 award-winning state parks and trails. Clean Air Month is a great time to get outdoors and celebrate Florida’s good air quality at a preserve, park or trail. Continued commitment to maintaining Florida's exceptional air quality will help ensure these resources and activities remain enjoyable for everyone for generations to come.
Learn more about Clean Air Month, the state’s efforts and how Floridians can do their part to protect Florida’s air quality.
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