Ground level ozone is considered a major pollutant. Ozone is formed when a complex chemical reaction takes place between the exhaust of automobiles and sunlight. Since ozone is heavier than air, it tends to concentrate near the ground in our cities. If people drove less, the ozone pollutant would be reduced. It is also harmful to animals.
Ozone causes watery eyes and a burning sensation in the nose and throat.
Ozone is extremely harmful to plants and can interfere with photosynthesis. Children are most at risk because they run and play outdoors in the summer, breathing deeply. The ozone effects are costing us over one million dollars a day in Maricopa County. Operation Ozone is the annual summer pollution prevention program conducted by Capitol Rideshare under the guidance of the Governor's Office. Every year, the purpose remains to reduce summer ozone pollution.