Department continues using technology, science, and public input to protect clean air
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is recognizing Air Quality Awareness Week, a nation-wide initiative to share information about the importance of clean air and ongoing efforts to improve air quality to keep people healthy.
“During Air Quality Awareness Week, we invite Coloradans to discover how air pollution impacts our health, and how we can all take actions to protect clean air,” said Michael Ogletree, Director of the department’s Air Pollution Control Division. “Air pollution can harm people’s health, but is often invisible. That’s why it’s important to be aware of air quality indicators, especially during Colorado’s sum- mer months. Those particularly at risk to air pollution, like people with asthma, may need to take extra precautions on poor air quality days.”
The department’s Air Pollution Control Division is committed to keeping people informed about air pollution threats and doing more to measure and reduce pollution. We’re leading the way through technology, innovation, and community input to protect clean air acoss Colorado.
One example is the division’s new air monitoring tool: the Community Air Toxics (CAT) mobile monitoring lab. This state-of-the art mobile lab will help us monitor air in communities disproportionately impacted by air pollution, as outlined in a 2021 law. The lab records real-time measure- ments every 1-2 seconds, while driving, for air toxins such as benzene, hydrogen cyanide, and hydrogen sulfide. It has the capability of detecting hundreds of other compounds. We’re also developing our Emissions Mobile Unit (EMU) mobile monitoring lab. Similar to the CAT, it will further expand our community-based monitoring capabilities.
“We’re tackling pollution using the best science and technology available ,” said Trisha Oeth, Director of Environmental Health and Protection.”In particular, we’re listening to communities disproportionately impacted by air pollution to ensure everyone breathes cleaner air, no matter the ZIP code, and that people’s lived experience informs our work. From increasing the clean electric vehicle options to cutting pollution from industrial and manufacturing sectors to building our Air Toxics Program, we’re taking a multipronged approach to curbing air pollution.”
Coloradans can stay “air aware” during Air Quality Awareness Week and beyond by:
- Signing up for air quality alerts.
- Signing up for the Air Pollution Control Division’s email updates.
- Sharing your perspectives at upcoming public participation opportunities.
- Exploring air pollution sources in your neighborhood with our new, interactive map.
- Following the department’s social media accounts for new, tips, and updates.
- Twitter: @CDPHE
- Instagram: @cdphe
- Facebook: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Stay connected:
Sign up for Air Pollution Control Division email updates. For general questions or comments, please email cdphe.commentsapcd@state.co.us.
