Reno’s air quality ranks among the worst in the United States, according to the American Lung Association’s latest “State of the Air” report. In response, Northern Nevada Public Health has introduced a new initiative aimed at transforming pollution penalties into community benefits.
The Supplemental Environmental Project (SEP) program, which launched recently, allows businesses that violate air quality regulations to fund local environmental projects instead of merely paying fines. The initiative aims to improve air and public health across Washoe County.
“We really want to emphasize reducing emissions but also protecting public health. That’s kind of the overall message,” said Brendan Schnieder who is the Senior Air Quality Specialist from Northern Nevada Public Health…