Monday declared an Air Pollution Action Day in Illinois. Here’s what that means

Air Pollution Action Day Declared in Chicago-Area Counties

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declared an Air Pollution Action Day in several Chicago-area counties due to elevated ozone levels. This is the first Action Day issued this year and it includes Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Grundy, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties, according to a news release from the Illinois EPA.

Background

In Illinois, an Air Pollution Action Day is issued when air quality is forecasted to be at or above the Orange or “Unhealthy/Sensitive Groups” category for two or more consecutive days. Similarly, an Air Quality Alert went into effect on Sunday.

Air Quality Forecast

According to AirNow, the Chicago area is forecasted to have an Air Quality Index (AQI) between 100 and 150 on Sunday afternoon and on Monday. The AQI is measured based on five major air pollutants, including ground-level ozone, particle pollution, and others. Ozone levels tend to be elevated during spells of hot weather, and more particle pollution occurs when residents use air conditioning units in their homes and businesses, officials say.

Health Risks and Symptoms

Individuals with pulmonary illnesses and other risk factors such as asthma, children and teens, older adults, and individuals who are routinely active outdoors for six or more hours per day should reduce exposure outdoors during the alert, according to officials. Symptoms to watch out for include wheezing, coughing, a fast heartbeat, fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath. If symptoms worsen, it is advised to call a doctor or 911.

Actions to Reduce Air Pollution

• Limit Driving – combine errands, walk, or bike if possible.
• If driving, avoid idling, consolidate errands, and keep your vehicle and other engines properly tuned.
• Conserve energy to reduce energy demands.
• Use environmentally friendly household and cleaning products.
• Avoid using gasoline-powered equipment like lawnmowers and leaf blowers.
• Notify colleagues, friends, and family to help protect their health and encourage actions.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

The article discusses the declaration of an Air Pollution Action Day in several Chicago-area counties due to elevated ozone levels. This issue directly relates to SDG 3, as air pollution can have negative impacts on human health and well-being.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

The article mentions the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in the Chicago area and the need to reduce the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality. This connects to SDG 11, which focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities.

SDG 13: Climate Action

While not explicitly mentioned in the article, the issue of air pollution and its connection to climate change aligns with SDG 13, which aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

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

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 need to address air pollution and its potential health impacts. Target 3.9 specifically focuses on reducing deaths and illnesses caused by air pollution, making it relevant to the article’s content.

Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

The article emphasizes the importance of improving air quality in cities, particularly in the Chicago area. Target 11.6 aims to reduce the adverse environmental impact of cities, with a specific focus on air quality.

Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

While not directly mentioned in the article, addressing air pollution and its connection to climate change requires integrating climate change measures into policies and strategies. Target 13.2 is relevant in this context.

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

The article mentions the following indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

Indicator: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution

This indicator aligns with Target 3.9, as it measures the impact of air pollution on human health.

Indicator: Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in cities

The article references the AQI levels in the Chicago area, which can be used as an indicator to measure progress towards Target 11.6.

Indicator: Implementation of policies and strategies to address climate change

While not explicitly mentioned in the article, addressing air pollution and its connection to climate change requires the implementation of policies and strategies. This can serve as an indicator for progress towards Target 13.2.

Overall, the article provides indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets, highlighting the importance of monitoring air pollution levels, health impacts, and policy implementation.

4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: nbcchicago.com