Officials noted, however, that preserving the area's air quality remains a concern. The area would continue to meet that standard through the turnover and maintenance of motor vehicles, combined with Ecology's emission check program. The wintertime oxygenated gasoline program will be discontinued, but could be reinstated if the area fails to stay within the carbon monoxide standard.
Carbon monoxide is a clear, odorless gas, produced by combustion.
It affects the body's ability to obtain oxygen from the air. It especially affects infants, small children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with chronic heart disease. Motor vehicles are the largest source of carbon monoxide pollution. The county will use the grant to update its solid and hazardous waste management plans, enforce solid waste laws, purchase recycling containers and continue its yard waste collection and backyard composting programs. The county will also collect and dispose of household hazardous waste, and educate children, adults and business owners on ways to prevent waste and to recycle.