Ground-level ozone, a harmful air pollutant, forms when fuel burned in cars and trucks, power plants, industrial boilers, refineries, chemical plants and other sources react with heat and sunlight. Ground-level ozone is the main component of smog.

Ground-level ozone is known as “bad” ozone because it can cause breathing problems, especially for sensitive groups like asthmatics or the elderly.

Climate Change

Climate change can impact the amount of ozone in the air.

Climate change is increasing temperatures globally and here in Michigan, leading to more hot and humid days. On hot, sunny days, ground-level ozone is more likely to be at unhealthy levels. Higher levels of ground-level ozone may then worsen respiratory disease symptoms. Helping to reduce climate change and adapt to its impacts will provide opportunities to improve health.