Outdoor Air
The District of Columbia is classified as a “serious” non-attainment area for ground-level ozone, one of the six pollutants for which EPA has established National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Additionally, according to the American Lung Association’s recent report, State of the Air®, the Washington D.C. / Baltimore area received an “F” for ozone air pollution. We can do better.
Simple Steps to Improving Air Quality:
- Drive less, especially during peak traffic periods or hot days.
- Use public transportation, walk, or ride a bike.
- Use compact florescent lights with energy-efficiency lighting and other energy-efficient appliances. To learn more about energy-efficient appliances visit the Energy Star web site.
- Turn off appliances and lights when you leave the room.
- Use the microwave to cook small meals. (It uses less power than an oven.)
- Plant deciduous trees in locations around your home to provide shade in the summer, but to allow light in the winter.
- Recycle paper, plastic, glass bottles, cardboard and aluminum cans. (This conserves energy and reduces production emissions.)
- Reuse materials like paper bags and boxes when you can.
- Shop by phone, mail or Internet.
- Telecommute. Even one day a week will make a big difference.
- Combine your errands into one trip.
- Avoid revving or idling engine over 30 seconds.
- Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines, for example, at fast-food restaurants or banks. Park your car and go in.
- Accelerate gradually, maintain speed limit and use cruise control on the highway.
- Follow your owner’s manual on recommendations for maximum economic efficiency.
- Use an energy-conserving (E.C.) grade of motor oil.
- Minimize use of air conditioning if you can.
- Get regular engine tune ups and car maintenance checks (especially for the spark plugs).
- Use EPA-certified facilities for air conditioner repair.
- Find out if materials are recycled when you change your tires, “throw away” your car or change car fluids. Ask before your car is serviced and consider going to someone who is environmentally friendly.
- Replace your car’s air filter and oil regularly.