Pennsylvania
Allegheny County Needs Clean Air
Every year industry in Allegheny County releases 6 million pounds of toxic chemicals into our air. Some of these chemicals can cause serious health problems like cancer, birth defects, and asthma. Allegheny County is currently ranked #2 in the nation for air pollution.
Allegheny County only sets standards for six pollutants in our air, but industry releases hundreds of different chemicals, including hazards like benzene, arsenic, and cyanide.
Even worse, some parts of Allegheny County have much higher levels of pollution. A recent study by CMU found that pollution levels in some parts of the County are 2-4 times higher than cleaner areas. That's not fair—we need protection for all County residents.
We need to pass the Air Toxics Guidelines which would set health standards for companies releasing chemicals, so neighbors won't get sick.
Even better, the Air Toxics Guidelines has a "cumulative impact" provision. This would require the Health Department to take into account the amount of pollution in an area before giving companies permits to increase emissions.
Write to your County Council member and tell them to support the Air Toxic Guidelines!
Take Action
Write to your Allegheny County representatives today and let them know we need clean air!
Tell them:
- Please ask the Health Department to pass the proposed Air Toxics Guidelines.
- Companies seeking permits to release chemicals should meet health standards so neighbors don't get sick.
- Local air pollution problems need local solutions. Don't let the state take over Allegheny County's air quality program.
If air pollution has affected your family or neighborhood, please let your elected officials know.
Write to:
Dan OnoratoCounty Executive
County Courthouse
436 Grant St, Rm 101
Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Your Council Member
County Council
County Courthouse
436 Grant St, Rm 119
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Don't know who your Council Member is? Find out.
Make sure to include your address and ask for a reply.
