Title
To support the Central Ohio Clean Air Solutions Campaign and encourage all Columbus residents and businesses to take steps to protect their health and help improve the air quality in Columbus.
Body
WHEREAS, air pollution includes dangerous contaminants found in the atmosphere and can exist in the form of gases or particles produced from diesel and gasoline engines; and
WHEREAS, each day, the average person inhales about 2,000 gallons of air, risking the inhalation of dangerous chemicals that have found their way into the air; and
WHEREAS, diesel exhaust is the number one air toxic risk in the United States and has the potential to cause serious health problems including cancer, lung disease, heart disease, emphysema and early death; and
WHEREAS, according to the Clean Air Task Force, citizens in Ohio face the 19th highest risk of premature death due to diesel soot and the lifetime cancer risk in Franklin County from diesel soot is 223 times greater than the Environmental Protection Agency's acceptable cancer level; and
WHEREAS, air pollution affects everyone including asthmatics, children, the elderly, minority and low income populations, vehicle and biker commuters and those who live, work, and/or exercise in areas where diesel and gas pollution is present; and
WHEREAS, the Central Ohio Clean Air Solution Campaign strives to educate the public about the importance of clean air and a common-sense approach to reducing air pollution; and
WHEREAS, simple ways area residents and businesses can help protect their health and improve the air quality in Columbus include:
· Conserve fuel and money by not idling a vehicle.
· Refuel in the evening.
· Keep your vehicle in proper running order to reduce pollution and avoid costly repairs.
· Reduce vehicle use by taking public transportation or car pooling.
· Strive to ride your bike at least two times a month to and from work and/or to run errands.
· Check the air quality forecast and plan appropriately.
· Try not to burn wood or trash and unplug appliances when not in use.
WHEREAS, all citizens and area businesses are urged to become a Green Spot member and learn about living and working greener, and commit to doing it-in their homes, businesses, and communities; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That we do hereby support the Central Ohio Clean Air Solutions Campaign and encourage all Columbus residents and businesses to take steps to help improve the air quality in Columbus.