It took 50 years but Colorado finally met federal standards to lower carbon monoxide pollution

Five Colorado Cities Achieve Carbon Monoxide Reduction Benchmark

August 16, 2024 at 6:00 a.m.

Introduction

Five cities in Colorado have successfully reached a significant milestone in reducing carbon monoxide levels in the air. As a result, Colorado is now seeking to be released from federal oversight for monitoring these emissions. This would mark the first time in nearly 50 years that Colorado would no longer be under federal oversight for carbon monoxide emissions, which were primarily caused by heavy rush hour traffic and vehicles without catalytic converters.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The achievement of reducing carbon monoxide emissions aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – By reducing carbon monoxide pollution, the health and well-being of Coloradans are protected and improved.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The reduction in carbon monoxide emissions contributes to creating more sustainable and livable cities in Colorado.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action – Colorado’s efforts in reducing carbon monoxide align with global climate action goals.

Background

In the 1970s, Colorado experienced high levels of carbon monoxide pollution in cities such as Colorado Springs, Denver, Greeley, Longmont, and Fort Collins. The main source of these emissions was automobile exhaust. During that decade, the region exceeded federal standards for carbon monoxide over 100 times, with most violations occurring during daily rush hours. As a result, these cities were placed under the oversight of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce carbon monoxide levels.

Progress and Achievements

Over the years, Colorado has made significant progress in reducing carbon monoxide in the air. This has been achieved through the installation of catalytic converters in vehicles by automakers, the use of cleaner-burning gasoline, and the implementation of auto emissions inspections. In 1999, the state reached the federal standard for carbon monoxide emissions and has maintained compliance for 20 years. Currently, carbon monoxide levels in Colorado are 80% lower than the federal standard.

Request for Release from Federal Oversight

Based on the successful reduction of carbon monoxide emissions, the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission voted to remove federal oversight and repeal monitoring requirements. The plan now awaits approval from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Continued Efforts and Challenges

While the achievement of reducing carbon monoxide levels is commendable, it does not mean that the Denver Metro area and northern Front Range are free from air pollution concerns. The region still faces severe violations of National Ambient Air Quality standards for ground-level ozone pollution. Measures are being implemented to reduce nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, which contribute to the formation of smog on hot summer days. Additionally, the production of oil and gas also contributes to carbon monoxide pollution in the area.

Conclusion

The success in reducing carbon monoxide emissions in Colorado’s cities serves as an encouraging milestone. It demonstrates the progress that can be made in protecting and improving air quality. The achievement should inspire continued efforts to address the remaining challenges and work towards a more sustainable and healthy future for all Coloradans.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 13: Climate Action
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The article discusses the reduction of carbon monoxide emissions in Colorado cities, which is directly related to climate action (SDG 13) and the creation of sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). The reduction of carbon monoxide also contributes to improving air quality and promoting good health and well-being (SDG 3).

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
• Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management
• Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination

The article highlights the efforts made by Colorado to reduce carbon monoxide emissions through the installation of catalytic converters in cars and trucks, the use of cleaner-burning gasoline, and the implementation of auto emissions inspections. These actions align with the targets mentioned above.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No, the article does not mention or imply any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. However, indicators related to air quality, carbon monoxide levels, and reduction in emissions could be used to track progress.

Source: denverpost.com