Ogden City Sustainability and Weber State University’s Sustainability Practices and Research Center (SPARC) are collaborating to improve air quality in Ogden. As Ogden currently lacks adequate air quality monitoring equipment with publicly available data, this year’s donated* funds will be used to purchase, install, and maintain air quality monitors throughout the city to collect real-time data on pollution levels. This data will allow Ogden residents, visitors, and city officials to better understand local air quality and help make informed decisions. Some funds may also be used to support a student internship to assist with the project, providing the student a meaningful opportunity to gain experience and help the local environment, as well as foster outreach efforts in our community.
Air quality is a significant concern for the Wasatch Front, including Ogden, where geographic and meteorological conditions contribute to inversions that trap pollutants close to the ground. These inversions, combined with emissions from vehicles, industry, and other sources, lead to periods of poor air quality that can impact respiratory health, especially for vulnerable populations. Building a better network of continuous monitoring will provide the data needed to inform strategies for reducing pollution and improving public health outcomes.
*Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by the IRS.
