A new report says air pollution in North Carolina is putting our health at risk.
The report is called “Trouble In The Air” and it says some of our mountain counties are seeing high levels of air pollution compared to other parts of the state.
On Oct. 5, 2021, leaders from several environmental groups and one state representative, who is working to make electric vehicles a priority, came together for a virtual press conference to present the report.
It examines 2020 air quality data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Findings show that transportation and electricity generation are the main sources of pollution in North Carolina.
Yancey County tops the state ranking for elevated ozone levels, with 30 days during 2020. Asheville had 15. The report says ozone is the main ingredient in smog.
Krista Early, with the nonprofit Environment North Carolina, says wildfires from across the nation have caused smoggier days even locally.
She says our higher elevation could also contribute to the elevated ozone levels. “The mountainous area - I don’t want to say is a collection point - but (is) a point where it all converges,” said Early.
This is significant because the report also says air pollution can cause or worsen health issues such as heart disease, cancer and even COVID-19. Plus, exposure to ozone pollution at any level increases the risk of death from all causes, according to the report.
Representative Harry Warren, who represents Rowan County through NC District 76, says we need to make electric vehicles a priority to help solve the problem.
Warren said he hopes in the future, it will become a solution for even drivers who deal with mountainous terrain and longer commutes.
“It’s a gradual implementation, which over time innovation affords the ability to address more unique situations - like a mountainous area versus people who live in a city and only have to commute short distances,” said Rep. Warren.
To see the full document, click here.