May is National Clean Air Month, an opportunity to shine a light on air quality issues and learn more about what you can do to improve air quality.
In the Bay Area, MTC partners with the Bay Area Air District to improve air quality, especially on “Spare the Air Days.”
May is the start of the Spare the Air Days summer season. Certain seasonal weather conditions can cause particles to be trapped in the atmosphere. This smog is air pollution that can be dangerous for children, seniors and some people with certain medical conditions (like asthma).
You can do your part to help keep the air cleaner, especially on Spare the Air Days. Follow these evergreen tips year-round to support cleaner air in the Bay Area:
- Sign up for Spare the Air Days alerts
- Avoid burning wood, especially in fireplaces or at campfires.
- Drive less: Carpool, take public transit, walk or bike. Limit the amount of time you spend driving in a vehicle by yourself.
- Visit 511.org on Spare the Air Days for tips on getting around the region.
MTC Climate Initiatives
In addition to working closely with the Air District, MTC funds programs that support the climate, including the Active Transportation Program and Safe Routes to School programs. Additionally, since 2013, MTC has invested over $1.28 billion in federal transportation funds – Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) and Carbon Reduction Programming – for projects specifically intended to reduce local air pollution. Learn more about MTC’s climate protection programs.
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