Since its inception in 1996, Georgia’s Clean Air Force, in partnership with the Environmental Protection Division, has removed more than 1.6 million tons of harmful pollutants from the air that we breathe, thanks to the Enhanced Vehicle Emission Inspection and Maintenance Program throughout Atlanta's 13 metro counties.
This has had a significant impact on the quality of life for Georgia’s residents. Air pollution is a very serious health issue, and studies have shown that air pollution can worsen allergies and asthma symptoms. This is particular concern for vulnerable populations, including seniors and young children.
The removal of the 1.6 million tons of harmful pollutants from Georgia’s air is the equivalent of removing 13,400 vehicles from the road, or planting more than 400 million trees. It is also estimated that Georgia residents have saved $311 million in utility bills since 1996 due to cleaner air.
“In 20 years, the Enhanced Vehicle Emission Inspection and Maintenance Program has proven very effective in removing harmful pollutants from the air in the Atlanta metro area,” said Pamela Earl, Mobile & Area Source Program Manager, Environmental Protection Division. “It is a trend that we look forward to continuing for the next 20 years and beyond.”
In total, Georgia’s Clean Air Force and the Enhanced Vehicle Emission Inspection and Maintenance Program has helped to remove 1.4 million tons of carbon monoxide, 138,800 tons of nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide (NOx) and 97,800 tons of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air that Georgians breathe.
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