Indiana keeps groundlevel ozone in check
Comet staff report

Sept. 30 brought a close to Indiana's ozone season. A preliminary review of 2007 data shows that emission controls are effectively improving air quality in all regions of Indiana.

"We maintained healthier air quality this ozone season in spite of the sustained hot weather, which can contribute greatly to ozone formation," Thomas W. Easterly, Indiana Department of Environmental Management commissioner said. "All of the Indiana businesses who have worked hard to comply with clean air regulations, and every resident who has taken voluntary steps, should be proud of their contributions."

Ground-level ozone is known as a summertime pollutant because it forms on hot, still days when pollutants "bake" in the sun. Common contributors to ground-level ozone are: volatile organic compounds in gas vapors; solvents and the exhaust from gas-powered engines; and nitrogen oxides in emissions from coal combustion and other fossil fuels.

Residents can contribute to improved air quality through voluntary measures on air quality action days, including carpooling, avoiding drive-through lanes, filling up gas tanks after 6 p.m., conserving energy and avoiding the use of 2-cycle engines, such as lawnmowers, all-terrain vehicles and boats.

Current and future clean air regulations and voluntary measures by residents and businesses will result in healthier air quality in all regions of Indiana. For more year-round forecasts and clean air tips, visit IDEM's SmogWatch site at www.smogwatch.in.gov or call the SmogWatch line at (800) 631-2871 or (317) 233- 2318.