Air Quality Control - Ground Level Ozone

The Springfield area is currently in compliance with all National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). However, as the area population continues to grow, so does our risk of increasing pollutant levels and exceeding the NAAQS levels. In order to help reduce this risk, the health department encourages community members to take proactive steps to help improve awareness about air pollution sources and methods for reducing pollution. What is ground-level ozone?

What can I do to reduce ground-level ozone?

  • Trip chain more often. It's easy! Chances are you're already doing it -- combining your errands into one trip. It helps you get things done, and it helps reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. When you first start a car after it has been sitting for more than an hour, it pollutes up to five times more than it does when the engine is warm.
  • Take mass transit, share a ride or carpool. Even if you do it just once or twice a week, you'll reduce traffic congestion and pollution and save money. The average driver spends about 56 cents per mile including ownership and maintenance.
  • Have fun! Ride your bike. It's a great way to travel, and it can help you and the air get into condition. Vehicles on the road create more than 25% of all air pollution nationwide.
  • Take things in stride. Walk or in-line skate instead of driving. They are easy ways to get exercise, and they are easy on the air.
  • Care for your car. Regular maintenance and tune-ups, changing the oil, and checking tire inflation can improve gas mileage, extend your car's life, and increase its resale value. They can also reduce traffic congestion due to preventable breakdowns and could reduce your car's emissions by more than half.
  • Buy fuel when it's cool. Refueling during cooler periods of the day or in the evening can prevent gas fumes from heating up and creating ozone. That, in turn, can help lower the number of ozone alert days.
  • Don't top off the tank. It releases gas fumes into the air, which cancels the benefits of the pump's anti-pollution devices. Stopping short of a full tank keeps gasoline off of you, is safer and reduces pollution.
  • Telecommute. Work at home sometimes. You will save time and money while reducing emissions and traffic congestion.
  • Know before you go. If your area has a travel and transit information network, use it. Call, visit the Web site, or tune in to the cable station. Get travel and transit updates before you leave home so you won't get stuck in a traffic jam.
  • Spread the word. If everyone took just a few of these simple steps, it could make a big difference.

What are some other ways I can help reduce pollution?