Slashing tailpipe pollution is a huge win for Arizona, where air quality is often dangerous

Latina Mom Advocates for Strong Tailpipe Pollution Protections

Introduction

As a Latina mom of two boys who faced the challenges of air pollution every day while growing up, I not only support, but need, the Environmental Protection Agency to put strong tailpipe pollution protections in place.

The Importance of Clean Car and Clean Truck Standards

The EPA has recently finalized Clean Car standards that will slash pollution from passenger cars and light-duty trucks. Now, the agency has also finalized Clean Truck standards that will protect our families from harmful pollution created by heavy-duty trucks and buses. These safeguards are imperative for the well-being of my family and other Arizona families and communities.

Air Quality Issues in Arizona

Arizona is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, but our state also faces significant air quality issues, particularly in urban areas like Phoenix and Tucson. Tailpipe pollution from dirty gas cars and diesel trucks is a major contributor to dangerous and deadly pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that are pumped into our air.

Impact on Public Health

These pollutants have serious consequences for public health, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and low-income families with higher incidence of respiratory challenges. High levels of air pollution can exacerbate asthma, increase the risk of heart disease, and even lead to premature death.

Advocacy for Strong Tailpipe Pollution Protections

As a mother and community leader, protecting my children from these health risks is a top priority. I recently spoke out publicly during a March 12 news conference in Phoenix with other state and local leaders, asking the Biden Administration to make good on promises to slash tailpipe pollution and improve air quality.

Benefits of Clean Car and Clean Truck Standards

The EPA’s final Clean Cars and Clean Trucks standards are a crucial step in curbing air pollution, improving public health, and putting us on “Route Zero” – the road to 100% tailpipe pollution-free cars and trucks. By setting rigorous standards for tailpipe pollution and requiring automakers to produce cleaner vehicles, these protections will help reduce the harmful effects of air pollution on our families and communities. Cleaner air means healthier children, fewer sick days, and a better quality of life for all Arizonans.

Addressing Climate Change

In addition to the public health gains, reducing vehicle pollution will also slash climate pollution from the transportation sector. Transitioning to electric vehicles, which do not create any exhaust, can help reduce our carbon footprint and prevent the most catastrophic impacts of the climate crisis. This is crucial for protecting our state’s ecosystems, water resources, agricultural productivity, infrastructure, economy, and the health of our families.

Economic Benefits

A common myth is that these pollution protections will impose undue burdens on automakers and consumers, driving up the cost of vehicles. However, history has proven that these predictions are false. Strong clean vehicle standards drive innovation and technological advancements that spur increased manufacturing and jobs. By setting clear and achievable limits, these EPA standards provide the regulatory certainty that automakers need to continue the transition towards clean transportation solutions.

Building a Brighter Future

I want to raise my children in a world where they can breathe clean air, enjoy our natural wonders, and thrive in a healthy environment. By supporting the EPA’s limits on vehicle pollution, we can protect our families, safeguard our environment, and build a brighter future for generations to come. I thank the Biden administration and EPA for prioritizing public health and embracing clean transportation solutions that reduce vehicle pollution here in Arizona and around the nation.

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
• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action

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

• SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• SDG 7.3: By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
• SDG 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.
• SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

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

• Indicator for SDG 3.9: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution.
• Indicator for SDG 7.3: Energy intensity (energy consumption per unit of GDP).
• Indicator for SDG 11.6: Ambient air pollution (concentration of fine particulate matter).
• Indicator for SDG 13.2: Integration of climate change measures in national policies and plans.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: azmirror.com

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