SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Clean air is not only important for the environment, but it also keeps people healthy.

Dr. Kerry Kelly, a professor at the University of Utah and UCAIR board member, joined KSL TV News at Noon to discuss what contributes to poor air quality – and what residents can do to help.

“We do live in an area that’s pretty challenging because we do live in this bowl,” Kelly said about the valley where pollutants get trapped during winter inversions. “However, there is something we can do, especially if we all join together to do it.”

Utahns can make small changes to help clear the air, such as shutting off their cars while waiting inside a vehicle, teleworking when possible, and skipping unnecessary trips – such as going for takeout every night. (Opt to make dinner at home, instead.)

Residents can also lower their thermostats by just two degrees, replace gas-powered snow blowers and lawn mowers with electric ones, unplug appliances when they’re not in use, and use LED light bulbs.

Kelly noted another factor in poor air quality during the winter is wood-burning stoves.

“Choosing not to burn wood and following the advisories can really help to improve our air quality,” she said.

Additional tips and information about Utah’s air quality can be found at UCAIR.org.