The Southwest Clean Air Agency (SWCAA) is responsible for enforcing federal, state and local outdoor air quality standards and regulations in Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, Skamania and Wahkiakum counties of southwest Washington state. Our mission is to preserve and enhance air quality in southwest Washington.

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Clark County
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Lewis County
Skamania County
Wahkiakum County

FEATURE ARTICLE

SWCAA Woodstove Replacement Program

Wednesday, August 15, 2012 - Woodstove Replacement Program now includes Vancouver Urban Growth Boundary!!!




Check it out today. Click here Woodstove Program for details.

SWCAA NEWS

Reduce Harmful Soot Pollution with EPA's PM Advance Program

Saturday, May 04, 2013 - The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a new voluntary clean air program, 'PM Advance,' to help communities continue to meet soot pollution standards, improve air quality and protect public health.

PM Advance focuses on working with communities to develop strategies for reducing harmful fine particle emissions.

Soot, also known as fine particle pollution (PM2.5), can penetrate deep into the lungs and has been linked to a wide range of serious health effects, including premature death, heart attacks, and strokes, as well as acute bronchitis and aggravated asthma among children.

On December 14, 2012, EPA updated the national air quality standards for PM 2.5 by revising the annual standard to 12 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3). Updated last in 1997, the revised annual standard will have major economic benefits with comparatively low costs. EPA estimates health benefits of the revised standard would range from $4 billion to over $9 billion per year.

The PM Advance program is designed to help communities who meet current standards continue to meet the standards. Early work to reduce fine particles, such as PM Advance participation, can be incorporated into required planning. Through the program, participants will commit to taking specific steps to reduce fine particle pollution, such as putting in place a school bus retrofit program or an air quality action day program, while EPA will supply technical advice, outreach information, and other support.

While federal rules are expected to ensure that most areas meet the new standards, areas can participate in PM Advance to help them remain in attainment.

Visit EPA's PM Advance Program for more information.

CLEAN AIR TIPS

May is National Bike Month

Wednesday, May 01, 2013 - Spring into action this month by parking your car and riding your bike to work, school or other activities. It is National Bike Month, a great opportunity to reduce pollution and promote clean air in your community.

For every gallon of fuel burned a car emits 20 pounds of pollution, a bicycle on the other emits zero pollution!

Biking not only improves air quality but offers numerous health benefits to the bicyclist!

Ready to get on your bike yet? Here are some resources to get you started.

WA Department of Transportation
Vancouver Bicycle Club
Bicycle Alliance of Washington
City of Vancouver Bicycle Maps
Clark County Smart Commuter