Each of us makes choices every day that affect the air we breathe. We have the power to change our habits on the road, at work, and at home to help clean the air and preserve our planet for future generations. Here are tips for reducing your contribution to air pollution:
Reducing Pollution
ON THE ROAD…
Drive less,
particularly on days with unhealthy air.
Use public transit,
walk or ride a bike when possible.
Organize and condense
errands into one trip.
Limit idling your vehicle to 30 seconds
or less.
Accelerate gradually and obey the speed limit.
Travel lightly and remove any unnecessary items that may weigh down
your vehicle.
Maintain your vehicle; keep tires properly
inflated
Support the Smog Check Program.
Report smoking
vehicles at 1-800-28-SMOKE or via the APCD's website at
www.sdapcd.org.
When buying a car, choose an efficient,
low-polluting vehicle or a zero-emission electric car.
Reducing Pollution
AT WORK…
Ask your employer
to consider compressed work schedules or teleworking.
Join a
carpool or vanpool to get to work.
Bring lunch to work to
avoid mid-day outings.
Start a worksite recycling
program.
Print and photocopy on both sides of paper.
Harness the power of the sun: open the blinds and turn off the
lights.
Dress for the weather and adjust layers before
adjusting the thermostat.
Turn off office equipment after
hours.
Reducing Pollution
AT HOME…
Check the Air Quality Forecast to plan daily activities
and limit personal exposure to air pollution.
Turn the lights
off when you leave a room.
Use energy-efficient lighting and
appliances. Visit www.energystar.gov for information.
Use a
surge protector for multiple appliances and turn it off when products
are not in use.
Ask your energy supplier about alternative
energy solutions like solar or wind.
Use a fan instead of air
conditioning.
Use a programmable thermostat and set it to 78°F
in the summer and 68°F in the winter.
Add insulation to your
home.
Choose products that use recycled materials.
Recycle
paper, plastic, metals and organic materials.
Have your gas
appliances and heater regularly inspected and maintained.
Microwave or use a toaster oven for small meals.
Use a propane
or natural gas barbecue rather than a charcoal one.
Use
water-based cleaning products that are labeled ‘zero VOC’.
Store
all solvents in airtight containers.
Paint with a brush instead
of a sprayer.
Use a push mower or electric lawn equipment.
Insulate your water heater and any accessible hot water pipes.
Eliminate use of toxic chemicals at home; opt for natural
substitutes.
Plant a tree! They filter the air and provide shade.