Their new Web site, www.greenchoices.utah.gov has information and links to resources across the state that deal with air, water and land pollutions. Here are two key pollutants that we are going to talk about today.
Donna Spangler, public information officer for the Utah Department of Environmental Quality stops by Studio 5
TUNE OUT SMOG: Vehicles are a primary source of air pollution. Here are some basic tips you can do to keep air pollution down:
o Driver Smarter. Consolidate trips, telecommute, carpool, use mass transit, walk, bike, rollerblade, skate, or even run.
o Maintain your vehicle. Keeping your car tuned up not only saves you money by avoiding major repairs in the future it also helps keep emissions low. (A well maintained vehicle with 50,000 miles on it pollutes only 40 percent as much as the same vehicle that’s poorly maintained.
o Avoid drive-thrus. Idling your vehicle wastes gas and pollutes.
PROPER PRESCRIPTION DRUG DISPOSAL: Studies show that pharmaceutical and over-the-counter drugs are present in our waters that can be harmful to fish and the environment. Here’s what you can do to avoid that:
o Do Not Flush. Medications should not be poured down the sink or flushed down the toilet.
o Do Not Throw It Away in the Trash. Drugs in the trash are vulnerable to being stolen and if you don’t have an alternative place to get rid of it, at least mix it with kitty litter or disguise it so as not to tempt anyone from taking it.
o Visit one of the disposal drop off locations at various law enforcement offices throughout the state. For a list, visit: www.medicationdisposal.utah.gov.
Come to the Utah Green Festival Sept 12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in West Jordan. The Department of Environmental Quality will be one of many organizations there that are helping Utah establish healthy and sustainable living. Come learn about mass transit, hybrid cars, solar panels for your home or business, recycling, gardening, and have fun with the whole family. Admission is free.
Visit www.conservationgardenpark.org for additional information about the event. For information and tips on how to help keep your environment healthy, visit www.greenchoices.utah.gov.
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