Air Quality in WNC
Air quality is a critical regional problem. A recent Chamber of Commerce survey ranked it as the second most important problem facing WNC. We recognize that pollution-related lung diseases are taking their toll on our population. Ironically, people used to come to this area for the pristine air – not anymore. Western North Carolina has higher rates of asthma and higher mortality from respiratory diseases than other parts of North Carolina. This area has teetered for years on the edge of compliance with federal standards. Because we just barely comply, there is no government mandate or funding to correct the problems.
That is why we must commit ourselves to the solution. The standards are not strict enough to guarantee we are breathing healthy air. In fact, we know we are not. Research shows that particulate matter in the air at levels experienced in Asheville presents the same risks as living with a cigarette smoker. Visibility is another indication of how polluted our air is. EPA calculates that on average, visibility without human made pollution in this area would be 93 miles. Instead, the annual average visibility is 27 miles. Air pollution is devastating to the health and economic future of this community and we intend to restore it to its former glory.
That is why we must commit ourselves to the solution. The standards are not strict enough to guarantee we are breathing healthy air. In fact, we know we are not. Research shows that particulate matter in the air at levels experienced in Asheville presents the same risks as living with a cigarette smoker. Visibility is another indication of how polluted our air is. EPA calculates that on average, visibility without human made pollution in this area would be 93 miles. Instead, the annual average visibility is 27 miles. Air pollution is devastating to the health and economic future of this community and we intend to restore it to its former glory.
