The report grades states and counties on ozone and particulate pollution. Ozone is not an issue in Alaska, where it does not get warm enough to create smog, but particulate pollution is a significant problem in some areas of the state. Unhealthful levels of particle pollution create serious, even life-threatening risks for many people, including children, teens and seniors, and people with asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

The State of the Air 2008 grades show Anchorage receiving a “B” in short-term particulate pollution, Juneau and Mat-Su receiving “C” and Fairbanks receiving a failing grade of “F.”

Many sources of particulate pollution are natural, such as dust and forest fires, but there are things that we can do to improve air quality. Implementing cleaner diesel exhaust systems and wood burning stoves are a few ways we can work for cleaner air. The American Lung Association of Alaska recently spearheaded an effort in Fairbanks to replace diesel-powered public vehicles with cleaner hybrids.

Other Air Quality News

In April, a new Assembly came on board in Anchorage. Many of the new members have expressed interest in reviving the I/M emissions program. Will you please take a moment and let them know that clean air is important to you?  

CLICK HERE TO SEND AN EMAIL SUPPORTING THE I/M PROGRAM TO THE ANCHORAGE ASSEMBLY