Campaign encourages residents, businesses to improve air quality

From Round Rock City News, April 29, 2009...

On Monday, April 20, area elected officials including Mayor Alan McGraw, Williamson County Commissioners Lisa Birkman, Precinct 1, and Valerie Covey, Precinct 3, participated in a rally at the state Capitol in support of the region’s “Big Push” initiative to remain in compliance with federal health-based standards for ground-level ozone, commonly known as smog.

The rally celebrated the unveiling of an exciting, region-wide public awareness campaign, “Ozone Action Heroes,” that empowers, educates and encourages residents and businesses to join the growing force to improve our air quality. By committing to at least three simple, yet heroic, actions such as refueling after 6 p.m., checking tire pressure and turning off the lights, we will win the battle against air pollution.

Read more...

Austin gets mixed grades for air quality

From Austin Business Journal, April 29, 2009...

Austin is among the nation's cleanest cities when it comes to particle pollution, according to findings in the latest study from the American Lung Association. But the findings aren't all positive.

Despite the high marks in the particle arena, the city and Travis County received an "F" for ozone pollution.

“Our failing grades for ozone mean that the health and lives of individuals in Austin are at risk," said Sara Dreiling, CEO for the American Lung Association of the Central States. "Now is the time to step up our response.”

Read more...