Wanted: Old, polluting wood stoves

While gathering around a fire has been a traditional means of keeping warm in the winter months for thousands of years, it’s a problem for many of our communities today. 

Wood smoke is one of the main sources of air pollution in Washington and our communities often suffer with poor air quality because of it. One of the ways Ecology is working to improve air quality is through wood stove buy-back programs. 

Smoke pollution still a problem despite improved technology

Newer wood stove technology has greatly improved and exceeded older wood stoves in efficiency and smoke reduction. For example, an old, uncertified wood stove produces about 252 pounds per year of smoke while a certified wood stove produces about 50 pounds per year. Comparatively, pellet, gas, or electric home heating makes much less smoke if any at all.

Even with improved technology standards since 1995, wood smoke is one of the main sources of air pollution in Washington. In winter, more than half of our fine particle pollution comes from wood burning devices for home heating. These tiny particles are small enough to make it past our natural defenses and lodge deep in the lung tissue where they have long lasting effects on respiratory and cardiovascular functions. As you might imagine, these pollution particles are in greatest concentration where the smoke is produced, our residential neighborhoods. 

Say “Hello” to wood stove buy-back events!

In order to improve air quality, Ecology developed incentive programs to reduce the number of uncertified wood stoves. Residents can upgrade their home heating device to a less polluting option. Old, uncertified stoves can be turned in for a cash reward, about $200.

Wood stove buy-back events are usually held in communities which have had a few seasons of elevated levels of fine particle pollution (particulate matter, PM 2.5) and received funding from the Washington Legislature. When funding is available, Ecology partners with local communities to work out event details, like location, advertising, and metal recycling.

On the day of the event, wood stoves are inspected to ensure they meet minimum standards as set in the advertising. The wood stoves must have been removed from a residence in the designated community or county of the event.

From 2012-2017, eight events resulted in 748 old wood stoves turned in by Eastern Washington residents. Those old wood stoves were destroyed and the metal recycled, removing future smoke from that stove, permanently. That translates to about three tons of wood smoke prevention per event. Eleven tons total so far! 

These programs have been well received by participants. Positive feedback has come from the public in comments such as:

“This will help with the smoke in the winter.” 

“This is awesome I hate my woodstove.”

Funding for buy-back programs

On Jan. 19, 2018, Gov. Jay Inslee signed the 2018 Supplemental Capital Budget which included $2 million in funding to Ecology to provide wood stove grants and programs.  Ecology expects to begin soliciting proposals in the late spring of 2018.

By Camille Bennett | Air Quality

Making progress on air pollution

Managing air pollution in Washington can be tricky during the winter. Many people heat their homes with wood stoves and fireplaces but the particle pollution from burning wood can reach unhealthy levels. This was a challenge for Pierce County in recent years but Ecology, Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, and the community worked to overcome the issue.

The problem

Particle pollution is a mixture of tiny solids that come from wood stoves, vehicles, dust, and more. It is harmful to your health when breathed in and one of the most serious air quality problems in Pierce County, WA.

Prior to 2015 Pierce County had serious air quality problems. It was the only area of the state to be in “non-attainment.” This means the area failed to meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Because of this, Puget Sound Clean Air Agency worked with Ecology to develop more protective regulations to help residents improve their air quality.

The area came into compliance with the NAAQS in 2015 after significant efforts to reduce wood smoke. It is now considered to be a “maintenance area” and is following the first of two required 10-year plans to maintain healthy air quality. Today, all areas of Washington meet the NAAQS set by the EPA therefore are considered in “attainment.”

The effects of particle pollution

Particle pollution, or particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), is so small that you won’t realize you are breathing it in. It affects the airways and lungs, and can cause problems in other parts of your body. It's especially bad for those with chronic heart and lung disease (like asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema), children, and the elderly. It worsens these diseases, which can lead to hospitalization or even early death.

Children are at high risk because their lungs are still growing and they spend more time at high activity levels. Exercise and physical activity cause people to breathe faster and more deeply, taking more particles into their lungs.

Even if you’re healthy, you may experience temporary symptoms, such as irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory system.

Particle pollution affects more than just your health, it affects the economy too! Families and businesses lose nearly $200 million each year in preventable health care costs from just from fine particles.

What we are doing

In order to protect health and the economy, Ecology and Puget Sound Clean Air Agency monitor particle pollution to ensure it doesn't reach harmful levels again. They have developed tools to reduce pollution levels, such as:

• Grants.
• Wood stove change-out programs.
• Uncertified wood stove bounty programs.
• Earlier burn bans and alerts.

In 2013—15, Ecology awarded $4 million in grant money to seven communities that are most vulnerable to violating national air pollution standards. Since then over 3,500 uncertified woodstoves have been changed out or replaced in high-risk communities. That number is expected to climb to 4,000 by the end of 2017. Many participants in the programs cite the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency’s uncertified wood stove removal rule as a motivator for their participation.

Another successful strategy has been calling for burn restrictions and public alerts earlier. This is accomplished by sending emails, text messages, using social media, and posting notices on websites. As a result of these efforts, the public now has a better understanding of the potential health effects and is being proactive.

Pierce County is still of high concern and is being watched closely. If it falls into non-attainment status again the consequences could include:

• New businesses would be less attracted to the area.
• High costs to clean up the pollution and prevent future recurrences.
• Stigma of being the only community in the state that did not meet the NAAQS.
• Citizen health could be at risk when exposed to high levels of pollution.

Although progress has been made, many communities are still at high risk of violating federal standards. We will continue to monitor this area closely to protect public health.

By Kim Vaughn | Air Quality

A breath of fresh air … 50 years of the Clean Air Act

(This is the third post of a three-part series.)

In parts one and two of this blog series we discussed Washington’s air pollution history and how pollutants affect public health and the environment. 

Clean air acts nationwide have lowered harmful levels air pollution over the past 50 years and now we all need to do our part to protect the future of our air.

Because Washington’s population is on the rise there is a demand for more fuel, housing, food, and transportation. All of these needs impact the air we breathe.

Here are a few things you can do to minimize your contribution to air pollution:

Buy local

The less time products spend on a ship, train, or semi-truck the less air pollution is created. Consider ways to reduce, reuse, recycle, and reconsider where your items originate from. Buying local also supports small businesses and creates jobs. We all win when you buy local!

Burn wood the right way

You should only burn dry wood that has been split, stacked, and stored for at least a year. Dry wood emits less smoke and makes a hotter fire. You should be able to easily see through the smoke coming from your chimney. If you buy wood, ask if it has been properly seasoned. Properly dried and aged wood burns more efficient and saves you money! 

Use an adequate wood burning device

During winter we often have stagnant air that traps smoke near the ground. Heating your home with a wood burning device can increase your family’s risk of lung and breathing problems. 

Wood burning devices include:
•    Wood stoves.
•    Pellet stoves.
•    Wood furnaces.
•    Manufactured fireplaces.
•    Masonry heaters.

Only certified wood burning devices are legal to purchase, sell, or give away in this state, whether new or used. They must meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Washington standards. If it doesn’t, check with your local air authority for grant programs to help replace your old stove, or better yet, switch to electric heat! Many electric companies offer grants to help convert your house to electric heat.

Only burn vegetation

Never burn anything other than vegetation. Check for burn bans before you start a fire and keep something nearby to extinguish it. For campfires, be sure to put them out completely and never leave them unattended. Everybody loves a good fire, but the smoke shouldn’t annoy your neighbor.

Construction debris, garbage, and scraps from another property are illegal to burn.  Use of burn barrels is illegal too.

Reconsider burning altogether

There are many alternatives to burning yard waste. When mowing, leave grass clippings where they land. They provide nutrients for your lawn. Start making your own garden compost, or check with your community for free yard waste drop off days. The less you burn, the cleaner the air.

Use alternative transportation

Vehicles are one of the main sources of air pollution in Washington. 

You can help reduce emissions by participating in the following:
•    Share a ride with others, carpool, or take a bus.
•    Ride your bike. Your heart will thank you!
•    Don’t let your car idle.
•    Consider being the first on your block to buy a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV).

ZEVs, or  electric vehicles, are gaining in popularity and the savings to your pocketbook, health, and environment add up quick. Imagine not having to get an oil change or stop and pay for gas!

Charging an electric vehicle is getting easier too! There is a significant effort to build the infrastructure to support the use of electric vehicles.

For example: the West Coast Electric Highway is an extensive network of electric vehicle (EV) DC fast charging stations located every 25 to 50 miles along Interstate 5 and other major roadways in the Pacific Northwest. Planning your trip just got easier with this map of Washington charging stations.

If you are heading outside the Pacific Northwest you can check out the Department of Energy maps of electric vehicle charging stations and alternative fueling locations nationwide.

Dispose of chemicals responsibly

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) contribute to ground-level ozone formation because they evaporate into the air. You can learn more about ground-level ozone in part two of this series.
Check with your local landfill or visit Ecology’s website to find a proper disposal facility. 

Some common VOCs are:
•    Acetone (nail polish remover, furniture polish, wallpaper).
•    Benzene (glue, paint, carpet, gasoline emissions).
•    Butanal (barbeque emissions, burning candles, stoves, cigarettes).
•    Carbon disulfide (chlorinated tap water).
•    Dichlorobenzene (mothballs, deodorizers).
•    Ethanol (glass cleaners, dishwasher and laundry detergents).
•    Formaldehyde (floor lacquers, some molded plastics).
•    Terpene (fragrances such as soap and detergents).
•    Toluene (paint).
•    Xylene (traffic emissions, idling cars).

Clean energy

Concerns about climate change, the use of fossil fuels, and air pollution are accelerating clean energy development. Did you know that approximately two-thirds of Washington’s electric is generated from hydropower? Washington also ranks as one of the top nationwide producers of wind power. It’s also becoming more popular and affordable to use solar power for your home needs. 

Check with your local utility provider or find a clean energy non-profit group for possible incentives or grants. 

Doing our part

The federal Clean Air Act requires states to develop plans to monitor and reduce air pollution to protect the environment and public health. The EPA sets national standards, or limits, for six criteria air pollutants called the National Ambient Air Quality Standards.  We discussed some of these in part two of this series. 

The six criteria air pollutants are:
•    Nitrogen dioxide
•    Ozone
•    Particle pollution
•    Sulfur dioxide
•    Carbon monoxide
•    Lead

It is each state’s responsibility to monitor the air and make sure they are meeting the national standards. If air pollution reaches levels that harm human health, the state must develop a plan to clean up the air. These plans are known as State Implementation Plans.

Ecology and its partners continue to work together to monitor and create rules that help maintain healthy air quality in Washington. 

We will continue to work to “protect clean air, public health, and the environment,” we hope you will too.


Look for your local air authority at community events, on Facebook, Instagram or visit their websites for more information. 


Part I: We’ve come a long way baby … celebrating 50 years of the Clean Air Act
Part 2: The best solution is less pollution … 50 years of the Clean Air Act

By Kim Allen | Air Quality

wacleanair50.org

The best solution is less pollution … 50 years of the Clean Air Act

(This is the second post of a three-part series.) 

Fifty years ago, Washington’s Clean Air Act was adopted in order to improve air quality for

Washingtonians. Since that time, much has been done to reduce harmful pollutants that effect our environment and people’s health. 

One of the many benefits of the good work started years ago, if maintained, is that that you, and future generations, can enjoy our majestic mountain wilderness areas. 

Seeing clearly through the haze

If you’ve ever looked out at Mt. Rainier, or any other scenic vista from far away and it appears hazy or blurry, chances are, those aren’t clouds blocking your view. It’s likely air pollution, also referred to as regional haze, and it’s one of the many air quality issues we’ve been working to improve.

Regional haze is formed by particulate matter that absorbs and scatters light. It can travel a

The same view with different amounts of
particulate matter in the air.

very long distance and individual particles are too small to see with your eyes. The more particles in the air, the harder it is to see far away. It also can cause serious health problems when inhaled. 

What makes up air pollution?

Air pollution and smoke are made up of hundreds of different complex mixtures of gases and fine particles; like soot, dust, and dirt.

Many of these mixtures contain harmful primary pollutants like: 

• Sulfur dioxides. Gases that form when sulfur is exposed to oxygen at high temperatures during fossil fuel combustion, volcanic eruptions, oil refining, or metal smelting. At high concentrations it can dissolve in clouds and chemically combine with oxygen to form sulfuric acid, otherwise known as acid rain. 
• Nitrogen oxides. A group of gases composed of nitrogen and oxygen. Two of the most common nitrogen oxides are nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide. Nitrous oxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Nitrogen oxides are produced by the burning of fuels from many things such as vehicles, power plants, industrial, commercial and manufacturing facilities.
• Volatile organic compounds. These are chemicals that can easily become vapors or gases. Along with carbon, they contain elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, sulfur, or nitrogen. Gasoline-burning engines are a major source but they are also found in many products used daily, such as paint and household cleaners. 

When nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds interact in sunlight, they create ground-level ozone, a secondary pollutant. Ground-level ozone is a harmful, colorless, and highly irritating gas that forms just above the Earth's surface. This is not the same as stratospheric ozone in the upper atmosphere that protects us from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Effects of pollutants on the environment

Even though many of these compounds are found in nature, having too many of them can:

• Make lakes and streams acidic; harming aquatic life and economically damage fishing industries. 
• Change nutrient balances in water and soil; causing damage that can’t be repaired. 
• Cause damage to forests; resulting in a loss of wildlife habitat.
• Damage crops; resulting in economic loss. 
• Contribute to acid rain; that stains and erodes monuments.  
• Affect the diversity of ecosystems; by limiting their ability to function and grow, such as during oxygen-robbing algal blooms.

Effect of pollutants on human health

Air pollutants, like fine particles and ozone, can harm people’s health. As pollution levels rise, the number of trips to the doctor due to pollution-related illnesses may also increase. Air pollution is a real public health concern because it can cause or contribute to serious health problems like:

• Headaches
• Premature death in people with heart or lung disease.
  
• Heart attacks.
• Irregular heartbeat.
• Aggravated asthma symptoms.
• Decreased lung function.
• Irritation of the eyes and airways causing coughing or difficulty breathing.
• Respiratory infections
• Cancer.
• Increased health care costs.

People at the most risk are children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with cardiovascular or respiratory disease. Health effect research shows that death rates in several U.S. cities increased when there were higher levels of particulate matter in the air. 

Coming soon

Our third and final blog will discuss things you can do to minimize your contribution to air pollution and what Ecology is doing to protect human health and the environment. Working together, we can ensure healthy air for another 50 years and future generations!
If you’re interested in seeing what the air quality is like in your community, check out our monitors your area by visiting Washington’s Air Monitoring Network. 

To learn more about the history of our state's Clean Air Act visit WaCleanAir50.org

Part I: We’ve come a long way baby … celebrating 50 years of the Clean Air Act

Part 3: A breath of fresh air ... 50 years of the Clean Air Act

By Kim Allen, Air Quality

wacleanair50.org

We’ve come a long way baby … celebrating 50 years of the Clean Air Act

(This is the first post of a three-part series)

 

It’s an exciting year for Washington. We are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Washington Clean Air Act! 

Since its inception, the act has helped protect human health, the environment, and serves as the basis for state and local air pollution rules. The Washington Clean Air Act allowed the state to appoint and authorize local clean air agencies to regulate air pollution.

Before Ecology and the local clean air agencies were formed, the state was dealing with dense smoke, flying rocks and mud, and large particulate matter coming out of smokestacks from industrial facilities. Air pollution was so bad it created visibility hazards on the roads and foul odors in cities of all sizes. 

“Imagine hanging your white sheets outside to dry and coming home to find them covered in mud droplets, or your car covered in soot,” said longtime Environmental Engineer, Alan Newman. 

Industry had old inefficient boilers that would spit out harmful, black, carbon-filled smoke. Factories and other industrial facilities had limited or nonexistent emission control technology and the regulations weren’t in place to ensue clean air. 

Newman explained how sulfur dioxide was released directly into the air from agriculture dehydration facilities and how exposure to the chemicals would turn green vegetables white. Luckily, in the early 1980s industries upgraded their equipment so the chemicals were no longer released into the air.

Newman saw firsthand how air pollution was affecting our communities. He was there. It was significant enough that people throughout the entire country took notice of air quality. They grew weary of these problems and reached out to the federal government and their legislators for help.

Ironically, immense smoke from a slash burn found its way through an open window during a legislative meeting in Olympia, Washington. This dramatic event demonstrated just how serious air quality issues were and prompted the legislators to take action. As a result of citizen concerns, and their own experience with the smoke, Ecology was created in 1970.

What causes air pollution?

Air pollution is caused from a variety of sources that we all contribute to. Some of the sources are:

• Emissions from vehicles, ships, trains, and airplanes.
• Emissions from construction equipment.
• Campfires, forest fires, and agricultural burning.
• Cooking, BBQ, and wood-burning stoves.
• Solvent-based cleaning supplies.
• Blowing dust, soot, ash, etc.
• Commercial and industrial facilities like factories, restaurants, and dry cleaners.

Sending the air pollution message

Sharing the importance of healthy air is a priority Ecology and local clean air agencies have in common. The anniversary is a great opportunity to learn about why protecting our air is important. You can learn more about our state’s air quality history by visiting wacleanair50.org, participating in a local poster contest, visiting an Ecology booth at a community event, or following social media pages. 

Check back with us soon for part two of this three-part series where we’ll explain what air pollution does to the environment and your health. 

Part 2: The best solution is less pollution … 50 years of the Clean Air Act
Part 3: A breath of fresh air ...50 years of the Clean Air Act

 By Kim Allen | Air Quality

wacleanair50.org