Monthly Archives: May 2009
Soren Simonson – A Clear the Air Challenge Role Model
If you’re looking for a Clear the Air Challenge role model, look no further than Salt Lake City Councilman Soren Simonsen. The father of two is championing the cause by doing all he
can to not only eliminate his own vehicle trips, but also trying to recruit 1,000 participants to the Challenge.
By simply walking, biking, using public transportation, carpooling or teleworking as many days as possible, Simonsen has been able to average less than four personal automobile trips per week.
“When thinking about alternate transportation choices,” says Simonsen, “start with the lowest-impact option first. Walk, bike, take the bus, take TRAX or carpool before you consider driving.”
Simonsen is directly encouraging residents in his district to take the Challenge by including information in his weekly e-mail newsletters and in the June edition of his biannual mailer. His goal is to recruit 1,000 people to take the Challenge. Simonsen’s enthusiasm inspires us all to find unique ways to reduce emissions and recruit our friends, family members and coworkers to participate in the Clear the Air Challenge.
Governor Huntsman, Mayor Becker & Mayor Corroon Issue the Challenge
We’re excited that Utah Governor John Huntsman along with Mayor Becker and Corroon have issued the Clear the Air Challenge to the state of Utah.
The 6 week Challenge begins June 1 and ends July 10. Governor Hunstman addressed the air quality problem we have in Utah and how it affects our health.
“We issued the Clear the Air Challenge because we have an air quality problem that needs to be addressed. Our unique geographical features trap harmful emissions in our valleys creating red alert days, which are especially hazardous to our health,” stated Governor Huntsman. “Vehicle emissions are one of the leading causes of our poor air quality. Luckily we can do something about that. We are asking the public to think before they drive, there are small changes that we all can make that will have a great impact.”
We need to drive our cars less and that is what the Challenge is about. Our goal is to encourage 10,000 participants to help eliminate a total of 300,000 single occupant vehicle trips and avert 1,000,000 miles. If we did this it would result in a reduction of 1.8 million pounds of emissions in our air.
The Challenge goals are to help improve our air quality, lessen traffic congestion and conserve energy. Read the entire press release for the Clear the Air Challenge.
Become a Fan of Clear the Air Challenge on Facebook
If you’re on Facebook and live in Utah, please become a Clear the Air Challenge fan. Then share your stories, carpooling experiences, blog posts and video with us.