Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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April 22, 2022
WHEREAS, air pollutants from various sources in the environment affect the quality of our air, leaving Michigan’s residents susceptible to health issues with severe impacts; and,
WHEREAS, clean air is essential to protect public health and the environment; and,
WHEREAS, vulnerable populations, including children, people with existing respiratory issues, people with heart disease, and the elderly are more susceptible to impacts and health effects from outdoor air pollution; and,
WHEREAS, residents in underrepresented communities are more susceptible to impacts and health effects from outdoor air pollution; and,
WHEREAS, increases in the frequency of wildfires add to the air pollution burden in some areas of the state; and,
WHEREAS, some air pollutants are regional and may have impacts outside of our state, and air pollution from other states may affect Michigan residents; and,
WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s air monitoring network, along with citizen science and sensors, provide information to help inform communities about existing air quality; and,
WHEREAS, utilizing the air quality index, a tool used by government agencies to characterize current air quality conditions, is a simple way to create public awareness to help protect the health of our communities; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan’s air quality index, real-time air quality information, and the use of Clean Air Action Days are readily available on the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s web page at www.deqmiair.org; and
WHEREAS, the State of Michigan and the United States Environmental Protection Agency support efforts encouraging residents to utilize the air quality index, sign up for notifications, understand what causes poor air quality, and take voluntary actions to improve the overall outdoor air quality in order to be aware and be prepared;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2-6, 2022, as Air Quality Awareness Week in Michigan. I encourage all citizens to learn more about environmental health issues and to recognize how clean air is a crucial component in creating a healthier environment for future generations to enjoy.