June 2024

We Can All Help Clean Our Air by the Next Olympic Games!

MARC MY WORDS: Thoughts from Breathe SoCal's President & CEO

With the official start of Summer just days away, I am excited about all of the outdoor activities and events that summertime brings. Meanwhile, the City of Light, Paris, France, is abuzz with great anticipation as it gets ready to host the 2024 Summer Olympics. They have been preparing for years as this kind of event affects every aspect of the host region’s commerce, infrastructure, environment and economy.

The work and dedication that goes into a global event of this stature, reminds me that we have countless moves to make in our own back yard as we are already getting preparations underway for the City of Angels to host the 2028 Summer Games. Cue the countdown for the July 14, 2028 Olympic Games Ceremony, followed by the August 15th Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony.

The LA28 Games will mark Los Angeles’ third time hosting the Olympic Games and the first time hosting the Paralympic Games. And just as any host prepares to welcome their guests, we here at Breathe Southern California aim to do our part.

Our program BlueSky LA – which we host in partnership with fellow nonprofit Climate Cents –is a monthly volunteerism initiative that hosts local projects that will improve our air quality. Our goal is to significantly improve the air in Los Angeles by the 2028 Games.

Through projects big and small, from tree planting, urban gardens, compost hubs, cool roofs, green roofs, solar, and many other strategies – BlueSky LA is building community engagement and actionable results to support and implement these projects in our communities.

While it may not always seem so, the Los Angeles region still has the worst air quality in the nation. And for some of us living near major sources of pollution, there are higher rates of lung diseases, heart disease and cancer.

If we want Los Angeles to be the region we know it can be, in which the estimated 15 million visitors leave with both a positive impression and plans to perhaps return one day... it would bode well if we all lean in and get involved. We’re creating many options for that to happen, which will greatly improve our air quality and aid in making our skies blue by the 2028 Olympics.

We want cleaner air, better shade, and beautiful spaces that enhance our day-to-day experience and that truly say "Welcome, we are truly honored to have you and host you and hope you love our region as much as we do."

We appreciate your support by attending our programs, such as our upcoming BlueSky LA events, or by making a generous donation to support our efforts to clean the air and reduce the impact of lung disease in our region.

This year while we are all enjoying watching the Summer Olympics in Paris, let's imagine what's possible here, and get ready to be a part of the solution to create a cleaner healthier Southern California over the next four year.

In Health,

Marc

Marc Carrel

President & CEO

Role Model Athletes with Asthma

Speaking of the Olympics, did you know, Jackie Joyner-Kersee learned that she had asthma while she was in college, where she was already a top athlete? She went onto win three gold medals in the long jump at the Olympics! A true inspiration reminding us of what's possible with the right treatment, training and athletic abilities!

Summer should be fun for everyone! However, if you have asthma or allergies, it’s important to be prepared. This is especially true when you’re in an unfamiliar environment where you may be exposed to new triggers. If traveling by airplane, keep your asthma travel pack close at hand for immediate use and so it doesn't end up lost!

Traveling somewhere that is high in altitude? There will likely be less oxygen than on sea level and possible allergy triggers, be ready just in case. Trips to the beach are popular and while the beach is mostly considered a safe place for fresh air and healthy breathing, heat and humidity causing symptoms are something to consider!

Celebrating Juneteenth!

Juneteenth marks the historic day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas learned they were free, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

This day celebrates freedom, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality. Let's honor the past and continue striving for a just future!

Two Tips For Summer in and Around Home!

Keep cool. Use a dehumidifier and air conditioning with clean filters. It’s best to use a High Efficiency Particulate Air filter, or HEPA filter.

Planting trees around your home helps clean the air and provides cooling shade from the hot sun, so you can potentially spend less on-air conditioning and simultaneously spruce up your pad.

The Problem With Pyrotechnics

It's no surprise that in Los Angeles the fireworks celebration that is 4th of July is an all night party in the sky.

We go big and from any point of view you'll be privy to a constant demonstration of independence via sound and light...

Unfortunately, the following days in July are often the worst air days in Los Angeles County.

Not great for our skies or lungs... Not to mention our poor animals too! For those with lung issues, bogus air quality can trigger nasty respiratory symptoms.

While we totally understand the desire to light up the night sky, let's not forget the negative consequences it can have on our air quality. If you or a loved one are sensitive, keep an inhaler handy, close your windows and turn on those air filters for a few days until things clear up and if possible, get out of town for a day or two.

Volunteer

We love when our supporters join us for a community event to make a difference. You can volunteer by planting trees or improving a community garden. #2028Olympics

Making a contribution to support our work is also appreciated.

It helps Breathe Southern California focus on our work to help

Southern Californians Breathe Easier™.

Your support is critical in our work to fight lung disease and promote clean air. Please volunteer or make a generous gift today.

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