Neighbors for Clean Air is pursuing policies that center the voices of those most affected by bad air and that targets the most dangerous forms of pollution in our communities.
WHY IS CHANGE NECESSARY?
Toxic air is the
single largest threat to human health globally, taking more lives than war, infectious disease and even smoking.
Oregon is the second most polluted state in the country and Multnomah County, the largest population center in the state, is in the bottom 2% of diesel pollution in the nation.
Diesel pollution in Oregon specifically results in the loss of billions every year in health care costs, missed work days and more. It can cause a myriad of health care conditions, such as heart disease, respiratory conditions, developmental delays and cancers. Ninety percent of Oregon residents currently live in a neighborhood where the air they breathe causes cancer. Diesel is the largest source of unregulated pollution in our region. Diesel is also a significant climate warming chemical.
Our health, our communities, and our planet need change.
WHAT CAN BE DONE?
NCA is pursuing three significant policies:
1)
HB 2396 directs the legislature to develop a program to control diesel hotspots, particularly those that come from the most significant unregulated sources, like construction equipment.
2) HB 3158 would provide funds to support the transition of older, dirty diesel equipment to cleaner engines.
3) An environmental justice bill to prevent the siting of polluting industries in communities that are already overburdened by bad air. A bill number will be forthcoming.
WE NEED YOU!
We need all voices to be heard as we move forward, particularly because the experiences of residents can be overshadowed by industry representatives.
Will you add your voice to this effort? By adding your info below, we will:
1) Connect you to ongoing efforts, including action alerts, opportunities to testify and more.
2) Connect with any groups you suggest.
3) Send along your comments to your elected representatives. Please highlight your experiences, if any, with bad air.
