Chico’s air quality policies

By Aaron Lutes, CSU Chico Freshman, Political Science 155

Chico is a city which prides itself on its progressive attitudes and policies, but Chico’s air quality has been something which has been deemed somewhat lacking. The city has already created laws to ban leaf burning, and has introduced a voluntary program, known as “Check Before You Light” in an effort to lower pollutants on days with inertly poor air quality. With the large amount of non-compliance it has become apparent that the voluntary program is not getting the desired results. The problem with older wood burning stoves is that they release PM 2.5 (particle matter less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter) which when inhaled is very damaging. It has become apparent that through general apathy towards this issue many persons do not follow the requested guidelines as to when not to burn their stoves.

It is therefore necessary to pass a law which would make the burning of these stoves on poor air days a misdemeanor. The reason for this is not to stop a pollution problem, but to prevent Chico from developing an air quality issue. While California is a leader in air quality laws, it is also one of the most populace states with some of the highest living densities and an urban sprawl issue and it is our responsibility to head off as many possible pollution issues as possible.

The enforcing of this law would require very few additional man hours as local organizations already perform regular checks on days with low air quality. Another way to enforce it would be diligent neighbors reporting non-compliance to local law enforcement offices; the current mode of policing the leaf burning laws. Non-compliance would have the same result of burning leaves. The law would not prohibit the burning of older stoves, but limit it like most counties do leaf burning.

Would this law pass, a simple way in which to avoid becoming at odds with the law would be to purchase a newer, more efficient wood stove (worth tax credits) which emit far less PM 2.5. It is through simple steps that we can help keep Chico a beautiful and healthy place to live, and this is one of those steps.

From the Fall/Winter 2010 issue of the Environmental News.