community air monitoring

Community Air Monitoring

Argentine/Turner KansasNovember 2013-July 2014

Richard Mabion, Green Czar and Sierra ClubLeticia DeGaigny, Global Community Monitor Kansas

WHO GOT TESTED:

Local residents of Argentine/Turner concerned about air quality and health

WHAT GOT TESTED:

Diesel Transportation health impacts

WHO DID THE TESTING:

Kresge Foundation Health Program: goal is to reduce health disparities by promoting conditions and environments that lead to positive health outcomes for all Americans.

Global Community Monitor: non-profit environmental education organization empowers communities to monitor the air they breathe for themselves

Local residents trained as qualified air quality monitors

November 2, 2013

November 2, 2013

Why Ultra-fine particle testing for Argentine/Turner?

Nearest monitor to Argentine/Turner is 2-3 miles away

KDHE and EPA Fine Particulate Monitor data does not represent the ultra-fine levels

Current PM 2.5 monitors indicate no real problem with particulate matter for health of Argentine/Turner residents

Independent ultra-fine particle testing could reveal hidden health concerns as well as solutions.

Preliminary Results: of Tested Areas, of Local Air Quality: Is Serious

Air quality tests in the Argentine/Turner area, for ultra-fine particles which can cause serious health

impacts:

• Levels high enough to conclude this is an area impacted by diesel engine emissions.

• Levels high enough to be associated with an excess risk of cardiovascular and respiratory

hospitalizations on the day of exposure.

• Levels high enough to be associated with an excess risk of cardiovascular mortality (death) two

and three-days after the day of exposure.

Steps Taken So Far

BNSF/KDHE/EPA introduced a new cleaner railroad work engine on May 20th 2013 to further protect both workers and the community

Next Steps to Cleaner Air

Emergency Called Meeting July 12th (Only Homeowner Only)

Town Hall Meeting Argentine Library July 15th

(Neighborhood Leaders Can RSVP)

Continue Community Air testing for ultra-fine hazardous particles in Argentine/Turner to compete year long project

Issue a final report to the public early 2015

Request KDHE and EPA monitor ultra-fine particles on a regular basis and share the data in an open and transparent manner

Everyone should have a goal of: Cleaner & Healthier Air

To RSVP or Get More Information

Contact:Leticia DeGaigny

913-526-6407