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Tuesday, July 2, 2024

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One million acres of forest protected under The Conservation Fund, including in OR; Trump seeks to set aside his New York hush money guilty verdict after Supreme Court immunity ruling; 'Share the Pennies' weatherization program tackles climate solutions, reduces cost; Utah feels the impact of California's ban on gestation crates.

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SCOTUS gives former President Trump a huge win in terms of immunity, which might apply to charges of election interference. A new poll finds future court appointments are crucial for voters, and President Biden continues to face post-debate calls to leave the race.

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Ugly, imperfect produce destined for the landfill is being upcycled by a California candy company, a Texas volunteer uses his Navy training to map the gaps in broadband, and Pennsylvania has a new commission tasked with reversing its shrinking rural population.

Air Quality Awareness Week starts with focus on wildfire smoke

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Monday, May 6, 2024   

Agencies are raising awareness about air quality across the country this week.

Led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Air Quality Awareness Week is highlighting the effects of poor air, with a special focus on wildfires and smoke today.

Travis Knudsen, public affairs manager for the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency, said small particles known as PM 2.5 in wildfire smoke can cause itchy eyes, coughing and other short-term respiratory problems.

"If you are someone who already suffers from respiratory issues, like you have asthma, it makes those acute symptoms that much more challenging and potentially problematic from a health perspective," Knudsen explained.

Knudsen said PM 2.5 particles can penetrate deep into the lungs. He also noted the Northwest is seeing more wildfires and his agency attributes it to climate change.

Smoke from wildfire season is at its peak in the Northwest starting around midsummer and lasting through early fall. Knudsen advised people to check the air quality index during smoke season, and pointed out people might need to reschedule their outside activities -- such as running or working out -- based on the air quality.

"Maybe when our quality is bad we reconsider those outdoor activities and instead just stay inside with a HEPA air purifier running so we are not being exposed to that harmful pollution from wildfire smoke," Knudsen suggested.

On Tuesday, the focus is on asthma. May 7 is World Asthma Day.


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