Air Quality_Content Page_May is Clean Air Month

May is Clean Air Month

Working Together for Cleaner Air

Clean air is important to human and ecosystem health. Poor air quality can affect people of all ages, especially those sensitive to air pollution, including people with asthma or heart conditions, people who work and exercise outdoors, and older adults and children. This May, the DNR is celebrating Clean Air Month.

The DNR works closely with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), research and scientific organizations, businesses and non-profits to reduce air emissions and improve air quality across the state. Reducing emissions from vehicles, and electric and gas utilities, to name a few, play a large role in air quality improvements. Individuals can also play a role in protecting and improving air quality.

Public Involvement

The DNR’s annual Air Quality Trends Report was again paired with a StoryMap, an interactive tool used to help visually display information. Rather than scroll through pages of data and graphs, users can explore the statewide monitoring network and use interactive maps to navigate through 20 years of air monitoring data.

The Air Management Program also recently updated its Air Permit Public Involvement webpage. The public can more easily view air permit application information, air public hearing dates and access to air permit documents right from the webpage.

Federal Funding

Two monumental laws – the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) – are providing billions of dollars for various climate change-related initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting clean energy, and enhancing climate resilience. Projects include the Clean School Bus program. The Environmental Protection Agency is awarding approximately $500 million in rebates to fund the replacement of existing school buses with clean and zero-emission school buses. So far, Wisconsin school districts have received 62 electric buses with this funding. The DNR tracks these funding opportunities and adds more information when available to the Clean Diesel page. For more information about other funding and grant opportunities visit the Public Service Commission website[EXIT DNR].

DNR Podcast and Videos

Get Involved

Get outside, get creative and have fun this Clean Air Month.

Stay Informed

Visit these pages and tools for more information and to sign up for notifications related to air quality in Wisconsin.

  • Clean Air Month News Release
  • Current Wisconsin statewide air quality - The DNR uses weather forecasts and data from air monitoring sites to determine air quality in the state and notifies residents when pollutants reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups such as asthmatics, children and older adults. The site includes an air quality mapping tool for the public to get up-to-date air quality information, report options and specific monitor information.
  • Download DNR's WisconsinAQM mobile app for Apple and Android devices. The app, available in the Google Play Store and the App Store, allows the public to receive air quality updates and easily view current air quality throughout the state from anywhere using their mobile device.
  • Review the Air Quality Trends happening in Wisconsin and read DNR’s annual report.
  • Visit the EPA/NOAA webpage on Air Quality Awareness week for resources and topic learning.
  • Access publications and other resources for children, teachers and adults on Air education and outreach.
  • Sign up for newsletters and notifications - The DNR uses GovDelivery to help us more efficiently manage our communications and offer more subscription options to our customers.