Colorado Air Quality Crisis: Act Now!

Clean air advocates are calling on Colorado's local and state leaders to take immediate action regarding unhealthy ozone levels and their significant health impacts. As of September 2, 2026, approximately 81% of Coloradans reside in communities experiencing detrimental air pollution, according to the American Lung Association. Denver ranks eighth and Fort Collins nineteenth nationally for ozone-polluted cities.

Experts highlight that air pollution affects individuals differently, with those having asthma or other respiratory conditions feeling the effects more acutely. Symptoms can range from wheezing and shortness of breath to more severe outcomes like heart attacks, strokes, and even premature death. Meah Freisinger, a 17-year-old student athlete, recounted how her severe asthma has led her to miss sports practices and be confined indoors.

The Regional Air Quality Council is actively working on a "Control Strategy Blueprint" to combat these issues. Recommendations include reducing outdoor activity between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., refueling vehicles after 5 p.m., mowing lawns in the evening, and avoiding house painting during summer. The council also advocates for transitioning to electric vehicles and equipment. The full report detailing these strategies is expected this fall and will be presented to local and state officials.