Action on Ozone

Why You Should Care About Ozone Attainment

Typically, gas prices increase to cover the cost of mandated environmental protection equipment for gas pumps. Consumers may also be required to pay increased costs for more stringent vehicle inspections. An area that is out of attainment will be considered less desirable for business expansion, as developers will be expected to follow stringent environmental regulations.

An ozone action alert is issued when meteorologists anticipate weather conditions that contribute to increased ground-level ozone levels. When an alert is issued, residents should take Action on Ozone by following simple tips, such as putting off yard work or limiting driving, for the remainder of the day.

Take Action on Ozone at Your Business
Although industry is heavily regulated and is known to contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, the Emission Database for Global Atmospheric Research reports that industrial processes account for only 17 percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions. Area businesses also play an integral role in the formation of ground-level ozone and consequently, can also play an integral role in its reduction. Because most area businesses are not regulated for environmental standards, the responsibility of conducting business that protects the community is a personal decision – but one that makes good sense.

Here's how businesses can reduce their greenhouse gas emissions:
· Combine errand tasks
· Avoid "topping off” the tank
· Encourage employees to carpool
· Provide a company-wide incentive plan to employees who actively reduce their carbon footprint
· Refuel fleet vehicles in the evening
· Service fleet vehicles often
· Reschedule discretionary maintenance such as painting, varnishing, and stripping.
· Reduce lawn areas
· Reduce or eliminate the use of gas- powered blowers, trimmers and weeders, especially on high ozone days
· Avoid using gasoline powered yard equipment, most of which have high emissions
· Share information about Ozone Action Days announcements with employees
· Develop a company-wide plan on how to reduce emissions that contribute to ozone formation

Take Action on Ozone at Home
The actions of area residents have a profound effect on ground-level ozone formation. Each time we mow the lawn, fill our tanks with gas, or perform household chores, we are presented with an opportunity to play our part in maintaining good air quality in Southwest Louisiana. Here's how to reduce your ozone contribution:
· Keep your car maintained and serviced to ensure that you're getting the best gas mileage possible on your vehicle. A well-maintained car produces up to 30 percent less air pollution.
· Don't let your car idle.
· Carpool with friends.
· Combine errands.
· Don't overfill your gas tank. When it's full, make sure the cap is as tight as possible.
· Mow and perform other lawnwork after 5 p.m.
· Refuel after 5 p.m.
· Avoid solvent-based products; use water-based paint, stain and sealants.
· Keep tires properly inflated.
· Seal containers of household, shop and garden chemicals and solvents.