Phoenix’s Commitment to Clean Air
By 2050, Phoenix will achieve air quality levels that are safe for both people and the environment. This includes exceeding all federal air quality standards and maintaining a visibility index of “good” or “excellent” on at least 90% of days. Currently, depending on the year, Phoenix achieves this rating on 70%–80% of days.
What Are We Doing Now?
The City of Phoenix is strongly committed to reducing air pollution and protecting public health. To achieve this, the City implements a wide range of air quality programs aimed at reducing ozone and particulate pollution, such as dust and smoke.
Efforts to improve air quality include:
- Expanding public transit, light rail, bikeways, and pedestrian-friendly development to reduce vehicle emissions and promote sustainable urban design.
- Implementing a dust control program, which includes asphalt treatments for roads, shoulders, alleys, and City-owned parking lots.
- Preventing trespassing and applying dust control measures on undeveloped parks and vacant land to further reduce dust emissions.
- Providing annual dust control training for over 200 City staff, ensuring compliance with stringent regulations set by the Maricopa County Air Quality Department.
Through these initiatives, Phoenix continues to take proactive steps toward achieving cleaner air and a healthier environment for all.