Letters to the Editor

Now that everyone's attention is focused on air quality let's address what we can do about air pollution. All drivers can start by not idling their engines for more than a minute while waiting for someone or something. It is appalling how many of us sit with our engines running while we text, talk on the phone, sleep or just plain wait oblivious to the fact that we are polluting the very air we breathe for no apparent reason. It is understandable to leave the engine running when we are stuck in traffic (although there should be a time limit even in this scenario) however it makes no sense to park and leave your engine running for 15-30 minutes at a time on a daily basis. The worst culprits are parents waiting for their kids after school. I have watched the same drivers park and idle for 30 minutes waiting for their child's dismissal 5 days a week. Unfortunately the kids are the ones who spend the most time breathing in the bad air created by dozens of cars idling in the same location. Please be thoughtful and turn off your engines. Everyone's lungs are at risk but children are the most vulnerable.

Below is an excerpt from the Bay Area Quality Management District Resource Page

Turn Your Key, Be Idle Free

You can save money, reduce air pollution, and help everyone breathe easier just by turning a key! Turn off your car engine if you'll be sitting for more than 30 seconds at a car wash, drive-thru or pick up spot. You'll save gas, money and help Spare the Air! The Spare the Air Resource Teams have launched "Idle Free Bay Area" to help create cleaner air around your community. For more information or to get involved, please visit Idlefreebayarea.org.

Grandma Ginny in Lafayette



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