Reducing Air Pollution

Transportation Alternatives 

Encouraging the use of public transportation, biking, and walking can reduce air pollution from cars. The analysis of Healthy Air Network shows that transportation is one of the key sources of air pollution in our region. 

We are starting new project to analyze key traffic locations in Hampden County and use that information for a campaign on public transit. Contact us  if you would like to join our project and participate in the planning of this campaign.

Go green, reduce fossil fuel use 

Using less electricity from gas, coal or other fossil fuels and switching to renewable energy sources can significantly reduce air pollution.  Supporting community solar, community choice aggregation efforts and other strategies to reduce our emissions will improve air quality.  

• The Live Well Springfield coalition is leading a project to support community choice energy and update the city’s climate action and resilience plan. Sign up to learn more at livewellspringfield.org

Plant trees!  

Planting trees, especially urban forests, can improve air quality. Trees and tree canopies growing over city neighborhoods reduce energy usage, remove air pollutants, filter stormwater, and cool hot city streets by providing shade and releasing water vapor. 

 

ReGreen Springfield

ReGreen Springfield works to improve the tree canopy in Springfield through new tree planting, care and maintenance of existing trees and educational programing for residents of all ages.  Working closely with the U.S. Forest Service  and the City of Springfield, ReGreen has made our neighborhoods healthier, more sustainable and more livable for residents living across the city.  You can help in the work of ReGreen Springfield through volunteering to plant new trees, attending educational programs, and participating in community engagement events. Follow ReGreen Springfield on Facebook or visit Regreen’s website above to keep updated on the latest events and volunteer opportunities. Check out their i-Tree analysis of Springfield’s Environmental Justice neighborhoods  and their overview of all Springfield’s urban forest benefits.