Delivering results
Help us continue making a difference!
In 2010, more than 4,000 Chicago area residents were surveyed to determine what actions the general public is now taking as a result of the continued air quality educational efforts of programs like ours. The survey results revealed the following:
- 84.5% use compact fluorescent light bulbs in at least five light fixtures in home.
- 80.3% unplug electronics/chargers when not in use.
- 78.7% bring lunch instead of going out to reduce congestion/emissions if driving to work.
- 77.4% consolidate errands to make fewer trips and run them after 7pm.
- 75.6% use two or more green cleaning products.
- 74.9% use a programmable thermostat.
- 67.8% switched to an ENERGY STAR refrigerator.
- 58.9% use a charcoal chimney or gas grill instead of using lighter fluid.
- 40.4% take public transit or RideShare at least five times per week.
- 36.3% use electric, instead of gas-powered, lawn equipment.
- 33.5% check daily air quality forecast at least five times a week.
- 31.8% bike or walk to work or school at least five times per week.
Each year, programs like the ones implemented by Partners for Clean Air have a positive impact on air quality. The following information provides a breakdown of the estimated emission reductions from the activities encouraged through our programs.
Estimated emission reductions for actions taken
- 7.43 tons/day: switching to electric lawn equipment
- 6.68 tons/day: using public transit or RideShare
- 6.51 tons/day: limiting driving, reducing trips
- 6.30 tons/day: using green household products
- 2.63 tons/day: walking or biking to work/school
- 1.23 tons/day: using charcoal chimney or gas grill vs. lighter fluid
- 0.83 tons/day: conserving energy
- 31.61 tons/day: estimated reductions
