The air quality in Wisconsin has reached concerning levels, particularly in the southwest region. Driven by smoke from Canadian wildfires, the poor air quality has prompted the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to issue orange and red air quality advisories for several counties across the state.
Particulate matter from wildfire smoke can cause or exacerbate a range of heart and lung conditions, damage the nervous system, result in adverse birth outcomes, cause cancer and result in early death.
Climate, Energy and Air Program Director Chelsea Chandler warns that climate change is a driving force behind these increasingly dangerous wildfires. “When climate change-enhanced heat and drought turn parts of Canada into a tinderbox, that’s our problem too. As we’re seeing now, smoke from massive wildfires can quickly transform blue skies into noxious haze,” said Chandler.
Climate change is a global problem that impacts everyone, and we must work together to advance solutions. Although greenhouse gases, particulate matter, and other dangerous pollutants are emitted locally, they circulate through the atmosphere and travel with the wind. Air pollution does not respect state boundaries or international borders.
“For those of us living in Wisconsin, some might think that we’re largely insulated from major climate harms, but the truth is we’re no island. There are no true ‘climate havens’ because the air is part of the commons. You can’t escape the air,” said Chandler.
Fires in Canada and the western United States are both products and causes of climate change. Urgent action is needed to support clean energy generation and efficient energy use while we rapidly electrify vehicles and buildings. Clean Wisconsin remains committed to advocating for robust air quality standards, supporting the development of solar and wind energy, and promoting policies that reduce climate pollution.
Clean Wisconsin urges residents to stay informed about air quality levels in their area and take necessary precautions to protect their health and future.
