We have the right to breathe clean air

From a letter to the editor by Amanda Cristal Garcia to the Green Bay Press Gazette:

Recently the Press-Gazette has published numerous articles on air pollution in Green Bay in which air specialists state "it's no surprise" that the amount of particle pollution does not meet EPA standards.

The source of the problem is coal combustion and auto emissions, which release large amounts of chemicals into the air. The question is why have levels increased over the years? At the stem of the conflict, we have companies that may not be following the laws put into place to reduce the amount of nitrogen dioxide and sulfur.

Apparently these restrictions do not suffice because pollution is getting worse.

Stricter laws must be implemented in order to prevent more pollution coming from our community's factories. Weak, ineffective laws will not solve the problem. Our community must push for new laws because it affects us directly. Citizens can improve air quality by taking the initiative to make walking and biking a part of their lifestyle, leaving the car behind.

Fuel-efficient cars will become readily available and affordable for citizens. Cleaner air is possible.