A team of researchers from Arizona State University has been granted $1.9 million by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to improve wildfire smoke preparedness in the state. The grant aims to provide communities across Arizona with the necessary tools to protect themselves against the dangers of wildfire smoke, especially as climate change leads to larger and more frequent wildfires.
Martha Guzman, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator, emphasized the importance of this grant in light of the accelerating and intensifying wildfires caused by climate change. She stated, “This grant to Arizona State University will fund a project to improve the capability of local communities to reduce indoor air pollutants during a wildfire smoke event.”
The project, led by Jean Andino, an associate professor of chemical engineering and air quality engineering expert, involves the collaboration of Megan Jehn, an epidemiologist and professor of global health, and Melissa Guarardo, an assistant research professor in sustainability and innovation. The team’s goal is to promote resiliency towards air pollution concerns and associated health hazards caused by wildfires.
Andino explained that wildfires release harmful air pollutants, including particles and gases, which are detrimental to human health. Given the increasing incidence of wildfires in Arizona and the nation, it is crucial for communities to be prepared and adapt to changing ambient conditions.
Jehn will co-lead training sessions with the community, focusing on the health aspects of heat and pollution. She emphasized the availability of simple tools, such as DIY air cleaners, which can mitigate the health impacts of wildfires in vulnerable communities.
Guardaro, whose work focuses on adaptation, equity, vulnerability, and urban policy, completes the team. She contributes her expertise in mitigating and adapting to extreme heat.
The $1.9 million grant from the EPA is part of a nationwide effort to enhance preparedness for wildfire smoke throughout the United States. The Wildfire Smoke Preparedness in Community Buildings Grant Program has awarded a total of nearly $11 million across the country.
Andino highlighted the importance of being aware and equipped with solutions for air pollution, citing the impact of Canada’s wildfires on the East Coast’s air quality during the past summer. She expressed her hope that the developments made through this grant in Arizona would raise awareness about the significance of air quality engineering and inspire more STEM-engaged individuals to contribute to air pollution control solutions and techniques.
