Local opinion: Let's breathe easier together

Years ago, I lived in Guam and was struck driving by the island’s growing mountain of trash at the dump on my way home, a stark reminder of how environmental neglect impacts public health and wildlife. I thought to myself: We can do better than this!

Now living in Tucson for over a decade, I have resolved to use my expertise as an emergency physician to advocate for cleaner air and healthier environments. This holiday season, I encourage you to consider clean air as one of the most precious gifts — a gift we can secure through informed choices and practical actions.

Poor Air Quality:

A Public Health CrisisAir quality isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s a health emergency. According to the American Lung Association’s latest “State of the Air” report, Pima County received an ‘F’ due to its high number of unhealthy ozone days, a serious concern as ozone pollution can trigger asthma attacks, worsen lung diseases, and increase the risk of premature death.

In my practice, I’ve seen how air pollution exacerbates chronic illnesses and harms vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Air pollution can impair cognitive development in children, increase birth complications, and even contribute to mental health challenges that persist into adulthood.

Further, recent data from the American Lung Association shows that most Arizonans still view air pollution as significant and demand action, with nearly half of Arizona voters (47%) calling it a crisis or very serious problem. This underscores a consistent, though slightly tempered, public urgency to address environmental issues.

A solution within reachReducing air pollution may seem like a daunting task, but the good news is that solutions are accessible and often come with financial benefits. My family and I took action by switching to an electric vehicle. These vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution and improving public health. On top of that, we’ve saved hundreds of dollars monthly on gasoline, and federal tax credits made our EV purchase more affordable. Through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), you too can receive up to $7,500 for a new EV or $4,000 for a used one.

Another way you can take a stand against air pollution is by making clean energy upgrades in your home. We did so by installing electric heat pumps, an induction stovetop, and solar panels. Beyond EV tax credits, the IRA offers up to $3,200 annually in tax credits to help families upgrade their homes with clean energy solutions, such as solar panels, heat pumps, and induction stoves. These improvements lower utility bills, reduce reliance on polluting energy sources and make clean air a reality for everyone.

Across Arizona, initiatives like electrifying school buses and expanding renewable energy projects funded by the IRA are already making a difference. These efforts bring us closer to cleaner skies, healthier communities, and just make economic sense.

Start Now for a

Healthier FutureDespite some shifts in intensity, Arizonans remain overwhelmingly supportive of clean energy solutions and governmental action to combat air quality issues. Three-quarters favor continuing policies that encourage the transition to renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Additionally, 77% agree that Arizona should rely more on renewable energy, especially as water resources become scarcer, given that wind and solar consume less water and emit less pollution.

This holiday season, let’s move clean air from a wish list to reality. With the uncertainty of the future of climate-related policies under the incoming administration, we need to continue advocating individually and collectively for clean energy solutions that will reduce air pollution. Making smarter choices and taking advantage of available resources can reduce pollution, save money, and improve public health. Visit azhpca.org/solutions to learn how the IRA’s can help you make clean energy upgrades and contribute to a healthier Arizona.

Cleaner air isn’t just a gift for today — it’s an investment in our future. Let’s breathe easier together.