Comment Log Display

On May 24, the ARB is scheduled to vote on a new rule to reduce air
pollution from California's construction equipment. This is the
first rule of its kind in the nation, and it could not come at a
better time.

Among other things, e.g. smog exposure, particulate air pollution
is a serious problem, especially in Contra Costa County, where I
live.  Particulates -or soot- can be inhaled and reach deep into
the lungs.  These tiny particulates can enter the circulatory
system and damage blood vessels.  Particulate pollution is
associated with heart attacks, irregular heartbeat, asthma
attacks, reduced lung function and bronchitis.  In fact, a
lifelong friend (since kindergarten) of mine, a husband and father
-Michael Wooldridge- was diagnosed with stage 3A non-small cell
lung cancer in 2003.  He never once smoked in his life.  He was on
the swim team, a cross country runner, soccer player and
runner...basically, the last person one would expect to develop
lung cancer.  However, one thing he did do all his life was live
in the shadows of Contra Costa County's refineries and industries
that have belched particulate pollution for more than 40 years.

My friend isn't the only victim of this environmental hazard; my
family and I and everybody we know are potentially at risk. 
ANYTHING that can be done to reduce overall pollution is positive,
and will have significant positive impact in areas like the San
Joaquin Valley and Los Angeles/Long Beach air basin.

I support stronger air standards for California's construction
equipment, and so do millions of others.  Please help make
California greener and cleaner, for all of us.

Sincerely,

Gregory Maier