The 14th annual Clear the Air Challenge in Utah is set to begin on July 1. By participating in the challenge, individuals can carpool, use public transportation, walk, bike, consolidate trips, or work from home to reduce their reliance on driving alone. The Clear the Air Challenge in Utah is an annual competition that encourages residents to reduce their vehicle emissions by choosing alternative modes of transportation. By participating in the challenge, individuals can carpool, use public transportation, walk, bike, consolidate trips, or work from home to reduce their reliance on driving alone.

Vehicle emissions, which account for more than fifty percent of the pollutants producing poor air quality in Utah, possess a considerable impact on air quality. The Clear the Air Challenge aims at increasing public awareness and educating Utahns on how they can make a difference by making small and simple changes in their commuting patterns. 

Utah is also starting to see more and more wildfire smoke, further affecting air quality. This challenge has prevented more than 1.3 million trips since its inception in 2009, saving more than 20 million miles and creating an emission reduction of more than 6,700 tonnes. 

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The event focuses on community action and encourages participation from all residents. Participants can register for the challenge at cleartheairchallenge.org and log their trips using the TravelWise Tracker website or the Commute Tracker mobile app. By joining the OneU team, individuals can contribute to reducing pollutants and improving air quality.

In previous years, the challenge took place in February, coinciding with the winter inversion period when air quality visibly deteriorates. However, this year it will be held in July to address summertime ozone issues. Although summer ozone may not be as visible as winter inversions, it still poses health risks.

Governor Spencer Cox has made significant investments in creating active transportation trails for bikes, both conventional and electric, as well as pedestrians. These efforts aim to reduce commuter traffic and promote sustainable transportation options.

Participating in the Clear the Air Challenge offers various benefits. It can save money by utilizing free public transit services and avoiding parking and gas expenses. It also reduces stress by avoiding traffic congestion and finding parking spaces on campus. Additionally, public and active transportation options often provide convenience and can be faster than driving.

Joining the Clear the Air Challenge team at the University of Utah allows individuals to track their trips and contribute to improving air quality. With cleaner air, everyone benefits.