Do you want to help reduce air pollution in Northeast Ohio? Air quality has improved substantially in the last few decades, but there are still improvements that can be made. It is up to every citizen to be informed and aware of air pollution, and for them to be diligent in taking steps to reduce it. As part of the Lexus Eco Challenge, six students at Saint Joseph Academy decided to do something about air pollution. 

No one wants bronchitis or lung irritation that comes with air pollution. Here are a few ways everyone can raise awareness about it and take steps to reduce it:

• Make reusable lunch bags and boxes, like this one, to reduce air pollution from the manufacturing of single use products.

• Help young children learn about air pollution by printing and distributing these coloring books.

• Use recycled paper because paper production creates large amounts of air pollution.

One way to reduce air pollution is to carpool and use public transportation whenever you can. If you drive, take care of your car to reduce the amount of gas you use: get a tune up, inflate your tires and replace your air filters. You will help our air quality and save money at the pump!  Also, slow down! If your car gets 22 mpg at 55 mph it will only get 18.3 mpg at 70 mph, so all that time you “save” will just be spent filling up the tank. Click here to calculate your mileage and gas usage. Southwest Airlines saved $42 million this year by decreasing their cruise speed by 10 mph, which only adds two to three minutes for domestic flights.

Another way is to consider what you are eating. Did you know livestock production contributes to air pollution and global warming? Eat less meat by eating smaller portions of meat, or you can eat meatless meals once a week. Organize a Meatless Monday at your school, buy sustainably produced dairy products, or eat more plant-based protein like beans, oats and quinoa. Learn more about meatless benefits here.

Finally, learn from environmental professionals. The Saint Joseph Academy Enerjagers are participating in the national challenge in partnership with the Cleveland Mayor's Office of Sustainability, the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA), the Cuyahoga County Department of Sustainability, Ronald McDonald houses in Cleveland and Columbus and teachers throughout the country.

Do your part and help reduce air pollution! Every little bit helps!

 About the Series

Sustainable Cleveland works together with community leaders, organizations, businesses, and citizens to reshape Cleveland into a vibrant livable city with thriving businesses and a flourishing natural environment. Each month, Sustainable Cleveland features a guest blogger to highlight their efforts and success stories in turning Cleveland into a sustainable city, at home, at work, and in the community. Share your success stories here. 

Blog written by: Alicia Valladares