Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
Air Quality
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King AQI:Good - Pollutant:OZONE
Kitsap AQI:Good - Pollutant:OZONE
Pierce AQI:Good - Pollutant:OZONE
Snohomish AQI:Good - Pollutant:OZONE
Tomorrow's
Forecast
King AQI:Good - Pollutant:OZONE
Kitsap AQI:Good - Pollutant:OZONE
Pierce AQI:Good - Pollutant:OZONE
Snohomish AQI:Good - Pollutant:OZONE
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  • Cars and trucks produce more than 700,000 pounds of smog-forming pollutants on a summer day in the Puget Sound region. Learn more.
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 Newsletter Main Page

CLEAN AIR NEWSLINE

April 2008 Edition

In this issue:

Ferries bring biofuels back on board

Standing on deck as the ferry Issaquah chugs across the Sound, does the air seem a little cleaner? A demonstration project recently launched by Washington State Ferries (WSF) aims to reduce air pollution from ferry vessels through the use of biodiesel. Over the next few months, biodiesel will be tested on three different ferries and if all goes well, WSF may eventually bring biodiesel on board all vessels in their fleet, resulting in considerable air quality benefits for the region.

Washington's ferry system is the largest in the United States and carries more vehicles than any other system in the world. But keeping the ferries running requires a significant amount of fuel, to the tune of approximately 17 million gallons of diesel fuel each year. The combustion of diesel fuel produces particulate matter (soot) – an air toxic that that poses heart, lung and cancer-related health risks -- as well as greenhouse gases and other pollutants. Biodiesel, however, is a renewable fuel made from vegetable oils, recycled cooking greases or animal fats. It contains minimal sulfur and is compatible with diesel-powered engines such as those onboard the ferries. Successfully integrating biodiesel into the ferries' fuel mix could annually help reduce an estimated 37 tons of particulate matter, nearly 51,000 tons of greenhouse gases, and approximately 29 tons of sulfur dioxide among other benefits.

The ferries initially explored biodiesel fuel in 2004, but severe and mysterious clogging of engine filters forced an abrupt discontinuation of the project. Since then a team of researchers have been hired to work with the ferry system and the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency to identify the causes of the problem, and find solutions.

In this demonstration project the team will test three forms of biodiesel on three separate ferries: the ferry Issaquah is testing a soy-based biodiesel blend; the ferry Tillikum is testing a canola-based blend; and, starting in May, the ferry Klahowya will test a blend based on recycled fats and vegetable oils. Each ferry will begin with what is referred to as "B5," which is a blend of 5 percent biodiesel and 95 percent conventional diesel. After a month of successful operations, the biodiesel component will be increased to 10 percent (B10) and then to 20 percent (B20). The research team will track the fuel through each stage of its journey -- from manufacturing site through transport to use within the vessel itself -- to assure quality control and more precisely pinpoint where any operational issues occur.

Presently the Issaquah is running on B10. Ship engineers have reported no problems thus far with performance and in fact have noted the engine purifiers are cleaner than ever. Since April 7, the Tillikum has been using a B5 canola blended fuel without any problems being reported.

The fuel tests will run through March 2009, at which time ferry officials will assess the future of using biodiesel-blended fuel. A successful conclusion to the fuels tests and the experience gained will provide WSF with additional fuel options moving forward.

This biodiesel research and demonstration project is a collaborative effort of the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and Washington State Ferries, with contractual assistance from Washington State University, University of Idaho, Imperium Renewables and the consulting firm Glosten Associates. The project was made possible through approximately $500,000 in federal funding secured by U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, combined with contributions and in-kind support by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, Washington State Ferries, Seattle City Light and Glosten Associates.

To learn more about the project, visit the WSF website at www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/environment/biodiesel .

 

Cool School Challenge: Encouraging student leadership, empowerment & action on climate change

Simple actions, taken together, can create a climate a change. This is the founding principle of the agency's newly developed Cool School Challenge climate education program, which engages students and teachers in practical strategies to reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions school wide. The agency's involvement in the project began in the fall of 2005 at a King County conference on climate change. A contagiously enthusiastic high school teacher from Redmond approached our booth and told us teachers were hungry for ways to get students engaged in climate protection efforts -- but didn't know where to start.

"But," he said. "I have an idea."

Inspired by the U.S. Mayor's Climate Protection Agreement spearheaded by Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels, Mike Town's advanced Environmental Science class had decided "if mayors and cities can challenge each other, so can students and schools." This led them to assess their schools' contribution to climate change. They audited the school, looking at electricity, waste and recycling, transportation and heating -- and then calculated the greenhouse gas emissions from these activities. Teachers and classrooms were then challenged to take simple steps to reduce emissions, such as turning off one panel of lights, using a durable coffee tumbler instead of disposable cups, or carpooling instead of driving alone every day. At the end of the year, the students estimated their school successfully prevented 72 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, and also saved the district $7,500 on its utility bill!

The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and partner Puget Sound Energy have built on the idea generated by Mike Town and the students of Redmond High School and created the Cool School Challenge program, a voluntary, web-based program designed for grades 7-12, wherein student teams conduct energy audits of as many classrooms as possible and then challenge them to reduce their emissions by 2,000 pounds or more over the school year. The program includes a website, a Challenge toolkit, classroom activities for teachers and supplemental resources. Classroom activities are aligned with Essential Academic Learning Requirements for Washington state. Currently the program is being field-tested in 11 schools. Two have completed the program, reporting more than 300,000 pounds in emissions reductions, combined. Though one of the schools fell just short of reaching its goal, participating in the Challenge *did* help launch a much-needed recycling program at their school.

For their innovative idea and success on this project, the Redmond High students have received the President's Environmental Youth Award, which will be presented to them this week by President Bush in a Rose Garden ceremony in Washington, DC. Read more about the award at www.coolschoolchallenge.org/about-news.aspx .

To learn more about the Cool School Challenge or how to start the program at a school near you, visit www.coolschoolchallenge.org or e-mail info@coolschoolchallenge.org .

 

Time and funds for the Marysville Wood Stove Replacement Program are running out

Don't miss out!  Marysville residents have until April 30 or funds run out -- whichever comes first -- to take advantage of the discount available for replacing a pre-1995 freestanding wood stove or fireplace insert with a new, cleaner heating device. Discounts range from $200 to $750 based on which heating device you choose. Funds are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so act quickly!

The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and its many partners are offering this program in an effort to help improve local air quality and protect the community’s health.

For program information or to apply, click to www.pscleanair.org/woodstove.replacement or call 1-888-859-5799.

 

Funds depleted for Tacoma-Pierce County Wood Stove Replacement Program

Meanwhile, residents of Tacoma and certain areas of Pierce County have snapped up all the available funds for the Wood Stove Replacement Program offered in that community.

If you applied but didn’t go through with a purchase, or missed out on applying, keep your fingers crossed – the Clean Air Agency hopes to obtain grant funds to offer another program next heating season.  Keep reading your “Clean Air Newsline” to find out if or when another program is offered in the future.

 

Think fresh about ways to celebrate Earth Day on April 22

This year’s theme for Earth Day is “A Call for Climate.”  Many events are planned throughout the region and around the world.  But you don’t have to leave home to celebrate Earth Day.  There are things you can do right in your own backyard.

Think fresh about these clean-air actions to help keep our air clean and protect our climate on Earth Day and every day:

  • Think about using a propane fire pit or patio heater.  Smoke from outdoor fires contains toxic compounds and fine particles that are linked with cancer, cardiovascular disease and respiratory problems, especially in children.  It can be a nuisance to your neighbors, too.  So consider a fire pit or patio heater that uses propane instead of wood.  More information about recreational fires can be found at www.pscleanair.org/actions/outdoorfires/recreational.aspx .

  • Think about air-friendly mowers.  Emissions from lawn mowers, leaf blowers and similar outdoor power equipment pollute the air in your yard and your neighborhood.  Today’s gas-powered lawn mower emits as much pollution in one hour as driving a newer car 140 miles.  But there are air-friendly alternatives.  Consider a push mower if you have a smaller lawn.  For larger lawns, consider electrically-powered, including cordless, lawn and garden tools.  And for lawns larger than a basket ball court, a mulching, gas powered mower might be needed so consider investing in a 2007 or later model.  These are much cleaner than their older counterparts.  And be sure to recycle that old, stinky gas mower.  To find a gas mower recycling event near you, visit www.pscleanair.org/actions/yardcare/mowerrecycle .

  • Think about natural yard care.  You can find many air-friendly yard care tools and products on sale at select stores throughout the Puget Sound region during Northwest Natural Yard Days, April 15 through May 15.  Visit www.yarddays.com for a list of participating retailers near you.

  • Think about landscaping for efficiency.  Strategically planted trees and other plants can help you save on your home heating and cooling:  a deciduous tree (those that lose their leaves in fall) planted on the south and/or west side of a home can provide shade and lower summertime air-conditioning costs.  Also, if you reduce the size of your lawn, you will reduce mowing time and fuel use.

For more ways to “think fresh” and to make a difference for clean air and a healthy climate, visit www.pscleanair.org/thinkfresh .

 

April is spring clean-up time – free drop-off for King County residents

As an incentive to recycle rather than burn winter blow-downs and spring pruning debris, Rainier Wood Recyclers is offering King County residents free drop-off of tree limbs and branches at their Fall City facility.  This offer is available throughout the month of April.

Even in areas where burning of yard debris is allowed (outside of incorporated cities and urban growth areas), the Clean Air Agency encourages residents to use alternatives other than burning – like curb-side pick up, composting and drop-off facilities. 

And it’s difficult to beat the offer from Rainier Wood Recyclers for the month of April – FREE.

For more information about this offer, go to their web site at www.rainierwood.com .

For more information about alternatives to outdoor burning, click to www.pscleanair.org/actions/outdoorfires/alternatives.aspx .

 

Air Quality Awareness Week is April 28 - May 2

“Be air aware” and mark your calendar for April 28 - May 2.  Each day of Air Quality Awareness Week focuses on a different air quality topic.

  • Monday, April 28:  Particle Pollution and Ozone.  Fine particle pollution is basically soot and smoke.  In the winter, most particle pollution comes from burning in fireplaces and wood stoves. During the summer, vehicle and other engine exhaust, land-clearing burning and backyard burning of yard waste are the predominant sources.  Easily inhaled into our lungs, particulate matter poses a host of serious health effects, and represents the most important criteria air pollutant challenge facing our region.  Find out more at www.pscleanair.org/airq/basics/criteria/particulate.aspx . 
    Ozone is a pungent-smelling, colorless gas produced in the atmosphere when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) chemically react under sunlight. The highest ozone levels on our region occur on hot summer afternoons.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently tightened the federal standard for ozone, making it more protective of public health.  However, our region is now very close to exceeding this new standard so if it is a long, hot summer, we have new challenges ahead.  With most ozone caused by emissions from our tailpipes, choices we make about what we drive, how often and far we drive, and the kind of fuel we use can make a difference.  Learn more at www.pscleanair.org/airq/basics/criteria/ozone.aspx .

  • Tuesday, April 29:  What causes poor air quality?  Clean, healthy air is essential to our day-to-day wellbeing, our long-term health, and the health of the environment we depend on. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency focuses its efforts on reducing air pollutants that pose the greatest health risks to our region – which include criteria air pollutants, air toxics and greenhouse gases.  For some air-quality basics, visit www.pscleanair.org/airq/basics/default.aspx .

  • Wednesday, April 30:  Keeping your lungs and heart safe.  In the Puget Sound region, fine particle pollution, air toxics and ozone are our greatest air quality concerns. These pollutants pose a range of health impacts – such as respiratory ailments, heart disease and cancer – which is why we support and implement programs and policies designed to reduce their emissions, and our risk of exposure to them.  More information and links to assorted resources can be found at www.pscleanair.org/airq/basics/health.aspx .

  • Thursday, May 1:  What are air quality forecasts?  The Clean Air Agency provides air quality forecasts for today and tomorrow on our web site, www.pscleanair.org.  The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a color-coded tool for reporting daily air quality that tells you how clean or polluted your air is. It provides simple information on local air quality, the health concerns for different levels of air pollution, and how you can protect your health when pollutants reach unhealthy levels.  What the AQI doesn’t tell you is levels of air toxics, pollutants in our area that also pose potential health risk, and greenhouse gases, which cause global climate change.  That’s because there currently are no EPA standards for measuring and reporting air toxics and greenhouse gases in the same way we measure and report criteria pollutants. More information about the AQI is just a click away at www.pscleanair.org/airq/basics/aqi.aspx . 

  • Friday, May 2:  What can YOU do to help make the air cleaner?  Although air pollution may seem like too big a problem for one person to make much of a difference, collectively, we can have a huge impact. Everyday choices we make – about how we get to work, how we heat our homes, and how we maintain our yards, for example – all influence air quality in our region.  If everyone changed just a few of these behaviors, and encouraged friends, family and coworkers to change a few behaviors, together we could dramatically reduce emissions of toxic air pollutants and greenhouse gases. Together, we can keep our regions’ air healthy and clean.  For actions YOU can take, click to www.pscleanair.org/actions .

 

Announcements

IKEA's Earth Day Fair – April 19 and 20

Join us Saturday and Sunday, April 19 and 20, from 11 am to 3 pm at IKEA in Renton.  We’ll be hosting a booth featuring clean-air tips and info, as well as handing out some eco-friendly items.  There will also be fun, educational activities for kids and families to learn what we all can do to help protect our environment. Gardening expert Ciscoe Morris will be there on Saturday, along with others from KOMO radio. There will be coverage on 103.7 FM the Mountain and AM 1250 Radio Disney.

 

Maritime Festival Sails into Seattle Waterfront – May 10

Thrill to the power of the world’s biggest tugboat races! Enjoy the Waterfront Chowder Cook-Off. Don’t miss free harbor tours, a boat building competition, sea-air rescue demonstration, kid’s events, Stories of the Sea, survival suit races and a container ship full of family fun.  The agency will be on hand with info on the latest clean-air efforts going on with our ports and the maritime industry.  Join us Saturday, May 10, from 11 am to 5 pm at Pier 66/Bell Harbor Marina and Pier 62/63 on the Downtown Seattle Waterfront..

 
2008 Pierce County Livable Communities – May 17

On Saturday, May 17, from 9 am to 4 pm we will be hosting a clean-air booth at the Tacoma Dome Exhibit Hall.  Much like a garden or home show, the Livable Communities Fair is an expo of exciting interactive booths, displays, workshops, speakers and demonstrations showcasing practical ways people can improve the quality of their lives.  Rhubarb, the Tacoma Rainiers mascot, and Bert the Salmon will be on hand, along with another appearance by gardening guru Ciscoe Morris.

 
Employment Opportunity:  Environmental Justice intern

We are recruiting for a summer intern to develop a GIS-based Environmental Justice community assessment tool.  Job description and application instructions can be found at www.pscleanair.org/about/EJ_intern_description.pdf (PDF 0.1MB).

 

About the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency

The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency serves the people of King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties.  We work together to clean the air we breathe and protect our climate through education, incentives and enforcement.  To learn more about our work, and how you can be a part of it, too, visit us at www.pscleanair.org .

 

About the Clean Air Newsline
             
Clean Air Newsline is a monthly electronic newsletter to provide air quality information to the residents of King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties. Subscribers receive the latest on air quality news, trends and projects that affect our local communities and the air we breathe. Feel free to pass the information along to others.

We also use the Newsline as needed to send timely and important messages about burn bans, Smog Watches and early calls to action when air quality deteriorates.

If this newsletter was forwarded to you and you would like to subscribe, you can do so at www.pscleanair.org/news/agencynews.aspx . Be sure to select Clean Air Newsline to be added to the e-mailing list.