Do Your Part

Air pollution is a problem that impacts all of us. Making changes, even small ones, can make the air cleaner for everyone.

Every day is full of opportunities – in our homes, neighborhoods, and commutes – to make a positive difference in the air we breathe. Something as simple as turning off a light can make our communities a healthier place to live, work, and play.

Wondering where to start? There are four key areas where small changes can make a big impact – at home, on the road, in your yard, and with our food. Explore the icons below to find out more.

Thrive Indianapolis

For more ways to positively impact the Indianapolis community, check out the Office of Sustainability Thrive Indianapolis plan. It’s the first actionable plan of its kind in our city’s history, that brings together city agencies, community partners, and residents to chart a course for Indianapolis that is equitable, healthier, and prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.

Get Involved

Students and educators can submit a project to Indy Thriving Schools to take action.

Do Your Part

At Home

In Indiana, more than 84% of our electricity comes from burning fossil fuels.

We use electricity and gas every day in our homes, which comes from burning fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. Burning fossil fuels releases harmful pollutants into the air, including particulate matter and ozone-causing NOx and VOCs. Reducing the amount of electricity and gas you use in your daily life alleviates the amount of air pollution caused by burning fossil fuels.

Small Changes with a Big Impact
  • Turn off lights and appliances after use.
  • Insulate your home.
  • Maintain gas appliances.
  • Only run the dishwasher and laundry when full.
  • Use a water-saving showerhead.
  • Ask your utility providers about a home energy audit.
Take it a Step Further
  • Buy Energy Star-certified products.
  • Use LED light bulbs.
  • Adjust thermostat settings seasonally.
  • Participate in green options offered by energy providers.
  • Open blinds and curtains for natural light.
  • Open windows and use fans in warmer months.

Do your part

On the Road

Approximately 45% of ozone-causing pollution is produced by motor vehicles.

Most of us spend a significant part of our day behind the wheel of a car. Cutting back on the amount of time we spend driving is one of the simplest and most impactful actions we can take to improve air quality.

Small changes with a big impact
  • Refuel after 7 p.m.
  • Avoid overfilling on gas.
  • Avoid idling.
  • Make fewer trips.
  • Maintain your car and tires.
  • Avoid sudden starts and stops.
Take it a step further
  • Carpool or use public transit.
  • Drive fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicles.
  • Ride a bike or walk.

Do Your Part

In the Yard

A single gas-powered lawn mower emits as much pollution in one hour as driving a car for 45 miles.

Just like gas-powered vehicles, most powered lawn equipment releases ozone-causing pollution into the air. Carefully planning your maintenance and making small changes to your lawn equipment can help make your lawn and your impact be a little bit greener.

Small changes with a big impact
  • Mow after 7 p.m.
  • Keep equipment well-maintained.
  • Avoid fuel spills and drips.
take it a step further
  • Mow with a reel mower.
  • Trim with electric-powered equipment.
  • Plant native plant beds.
  • Use non-powered lawn tools.

Do Your Part

Our Food

Americans throw out as much as 40% of the food we grow. (U.N. Food & Agriculture Org.)

From food production and transportation to packaging and waste, the food we buy, consume, and throw out impacts every part of our environment, including the air we breathe. When we make responsible food choices, our health, our environment, and our communities see the benefit.

Small changes with a big impact
  • Purchase sustainably-sourced foods.
  • Avoid using drive-thru lanes to minimize time spent running your car.
take it a step further

Eat at restaurants within walking distance.

Purchase locally-produced foods. 

Bring lunch in reusable / biodegradable containers.

Only purchase food you will consume.

Learn how you can help keep our air clean every day