Denver Metro Area Sees Falling Grades for Ozone and Particulate Pollution in
2009 American Lung Association State of the Air Report
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April 29, 2009 — The Denver metro area saw falling grades in the 10th annual American Lung Association State of the Air report released today. The State of the Air Report gives letter grades to counties with air quality monitoring devices for ozone and particle pollution. Ground-level ozone is formed when nitrogen oxides combine with volatile organic compounds in the presence of heat and sunlight. Particulate pollution is made up of fine pieces ash, soot, dust, and metals that originate from mobile sources as well as power plants.
Adams and Denver Counties received a grade of C for ozone pollution based on air quality monitoring data obtained from 2005-2007. In the same report, Arapahoe, Boulder, Douglas, and Jefferson Counties received a grade of F. These grades have fallen when compared to last year’s report, in which Adams County received an A, Arapahoe and Denver Counties received a B, Boulder and Douglas Counties received a C, and Jefferson County received the lowest grade
of a D.
Counties in the Denver metro area did not see improving grades regarding 24-hour particulate pollution. While Boulder County maintained a grade of A, Adams and Arapahoe Counties dropped from a B in 2008 to a C this year. Similarly in last year’s report, the City and County of Denver received a grade of F. All counties in Colorado passed the annual test for particulates, indicating that yearly averages for this pollutant were within healthy limits.
The ozone grades incorporate the new national air quality standard for ozone, which was lowered from 80 parts per billion to 75 parts per billion in March 2008 by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This standard recognizes that even lower levels of ozone can be more harmful than previously thought. “These failing grades for ozone pollution do not mean that the ozone levels have gotten worse from previous years,” explained Natalia Swalnick, Air Quality Manager at the American Lung Association in Colorado. “It does mean that now we recognize that the ozone we have is much more dangerous and we need to continue our actions to clean up the sources.”
“The American Lung Association in Colorado is an active and engaged stakeholder in the policy process to improve the region’s air quality in conjunction with such organizations as the Regional Air Quality Council, Air Pollution Control Division at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, as well as the EPA,” noted Swalnick.
“The Regional Air Quality Council has spearheaded significant efforts over the past several years to reduce ground-level ozone through the region,” said Ken Lloyd, Executive Director of the Regional Air Quality Council. “We will continue these efforts as we strive to reduce ozone levels even further, especially from the many small sources that the everyday behaviors or actions that citizens have the power to control.”
Ozone pollution immediately irritates the lungs when inhaled, resulting in something similar to a bad sunburn in the lungs. Acute, or short-term, symptoms include wheezing, coughing and asthma attacks. Breathing ozone pollution can even shorten lives. “Air pollution can harm even healthy adults, but it can threaten the lives of more vulnerable populations such as infants and older adults. Lungs continue to develop until age 18, and when children are exposed to air pollution, it can stunt that growth leading to decreased lung function and a predisposition to infection later on in life,” said Swalnick. “Seniors and those living with lung disease are also increasingly susceptible to the effects of air pollution.”
In cooperation with the RAQC, EPA and local governments, the American Lung Association in Colorado organizes events and programs designed to reduce air pollution. The Mow Down Pollution event will take place on Saturday, May 2 at locations across the Front Range. The flagship event, taking place in Garland Park in Denver from 8:00 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature live music, door prizes and exhibitor booths to educate the public about how they can lessen their contributions to air pollution. Citizens can trade gas-powered lawn equipment for battery-powered mowers that produce zero-emissions.
“Colorado residents can take steps to improve air quality, steps that can ultimately impact climate change as well. That includes driving less, reducing unnecessary engine idling, and fueling your vehicle after dusk,” said Swalnick.
The American Lung Association’s State of the Air report finds that 6 out of 10 Americans -- 186.1 million people -- live in areas where air pollution levels endanger lives. State of the Air 2009 acknowledges substantial progress against air pollution in many areas of the country, but finds nearly every major city still burdened by air pollution. Despite America’s growing “green” movement, the air in many cities became dirtier since the last report.
About the American Lung Association: Now in its second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease. With your generous support, the American Lung Association is “Fighting for Air” through research, education and advocacy. For more information about the American Lung Association, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit www.lungcolorado.org.
