Popular Press
A Simple Step to Improve Air Quality for School Kids
The Oregonian
(2011)
Abstract
Toxic air near our schools is an Oregon-wide problem, and it's time for Salem to take actions to protect Oregon's children. Many of Oregon's schools were identified as having some of the worst air quality in the nation (in a USA Today report on industrial pollutants and air quality around schools). Schools in Pendleton, Portland, Medford, Junction City, Clackamas, Milwaukie, Eugene, Springfield, Oregon City, and Riddle all make the list when it comes to the top 1%-5% of schools in America with the worst air quality. Scrolling down to the top 6%-10% of schools with the worst air quality in the nation reveals schools in Medford, Riddle, Portland, Pendleton, Milwaukie, Junction City, Klamath Falls, Halsey, Eugene, Albany, Springfield, Winston, Oregon City, Toledo, and Clackamas.
All over Oregon there are families who must focus on sheer survival – families for whom time/energy/access to advocate for clean air for their children is a luxury they do not have. In the list of Portland area schools with toxic air (below), many are in low income areas. For decades, these areas have been air quality sacrifice zones for polluting industries. This week, representatives in Salem can make a difference in the lives of children living in sacrifice zones throughout the state – by putting this DEQ grant request (which will cost Oregon nothing) onto this week's Ways and Means Committee agenda.
Disciplines
Publication Date
May 7, 2011
Publisher Statement
https://www.oregonlive.com/opinion/2011/05/a_simple_step_to_improve_air_q.html
Citation Information
Tracy J. Prince. "A Simple Step to Improve Air Quality for School Kids" The Oregonian (2011) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/tracy-prince/38/