LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville had an increase in poor air quality days last year compared to years past due to Canadian wildfires.
Louisville Metro Air Pollution Control District released its annual report on Monday. Last year, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded $1 million for a project to address air pollution in the city's West end. Staff also collected 55 million data points on Louisville's air in 2023.
"Beyond diligently implementing some of the most protective local air pollution regulations in the country, our staff continue to find innovative ways to advance our work," Rachael Hamilton, director of the Air Pollution Control District said in a news release. "I am proud to share this report and recognize the work of the scientists, engineers, technicians, compliance officers, environmental coordinators, and administrative professionals who spend each day protecting Louisville’s air."
According to a news release, 29 business and organizations signed up as Air Quality Action Partners, a commitment to improve local air quality.
Last year, Louisville experienced 187 good days, 157 moderate days, 20 days that were unhealthy for sensitive groups and one unhealthy day in 2023, according to Air Quality Index. The uptick in poor air quality days was attributed to smoke impacts from Canadian wildfires.
It has been nearly 20 years since the city had an air quality study completed, which found Louisville had high levels of toxic air pollutants. This led to the passing of the Strategic Toxic Air Reduction (STAR) program. According to the city, since 2005 when the STAR program was initiated, emissions of toxic chemicals in parts of west Louisville have dropped nearly 80%.
To read the full report, visit Louisville Air Pollution Control District's website.
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