Benzene Reduction Campaign Status

The mournful look of 7 year old Gwenyth peering out from above the gas mask sends a message that is being taken seriously around Lane County - Please don’t idle your car....kids want to breathe clean air!

Since we began our benzene reduction project last year, growing numbers of governments, agencies, school districts and businesses have actively joined OTA to put an end to topping off and idling.  In addition to the benzene reduction policy adoption of Lane and Multnomah Counties, the city of Creswell and the 4J and South Lane School districts have also pledged to do all they can to help keep the air around schools and neighborhoods free of benzene fumes.  Four automotive repair shops and Market of Choice have enthusiastically joined the campaign because they want to make sure car owners learn that idling is not good for the air - or your engine.  Our recent partners in the repair business are Sandpiper Auto, Jackson Auto and Euroasian Automotive, and AutoHaus.  George Rode, owner of Euroasian Automotive said he tries to remind his customers that the most efficient way to warm up the engine is to just start driving it after twenty to thirty seconds from the time you turn the motor on.    Krista Parent, board member of the South Lane School District, points out that, “A simple way to reduce benzene in the air is to say ‘no’ the next time you are asked if you want your gas tank ‘topped off.’”

OTA also wants to express our appreciation to the Spirit Mountain Community Fund who recently provided funding for OTA’s benzene outreach program.

New!  County Commissioner Faye Stewart and his family teamed up with OTA and Lane County Public Health for a public service announcement asking County residents to help clear the air. Click here to view it, and watch for Faye and his family on Metro TV! Note: the file is 2MB, so it may take a few minutes to download.