Poor air quality a ‘perfect storm’ for health problems on Colorado’s Western Slope
On the Western Slope, the Grand Junction area experienced 64 days of elevated air pollution, while Durango experienced 62 days and Glenwood Springs and Gunnison County each experienced 55 days.
On the Western Slope, the Grand Junction area experienced 64 days of elevated air pollution, while Durango experienced 62 days and Glenwood Springs and Gunnison County each experienced 55 days. These were the findings of the 2021 edition of the “Trouble in the Air” report, released by Environment Colorado Research & Policy Center on Oct. 20. Air pollution, much of which results from burning fossil fuels and from wildfires, increases the risk of premature death, asthma attacks and cancer.
“Even one day of breathing in polluted air is dangerous for our health,” said Rex Wilmouth, Environment Colorado’s senior program director. “Fifty-five to 64 days is unacceptable and we need to do more to deliver cleaner air for our communities.”
Environment Colorado and our national network are advocating a wide array of solutions to the problem, including clean, renewable energy and cleaner transportation.