Total housing starts in 1996, estimated at 7,000, are half the 1985 peak of 14,000. The main reasons housing supply lags demand include lack of appropriately zoned land, resistance to higher-density housing and some lengthy development approval processes. Air quality is fundamental to the health of our people, nature and our economy. In a 21st century community, people will recognize the interdependence of the economy and environment and change behavior to prevent further degradation of our environment. The number of days Silicon Valley air exceeds ozone standards is an indicator of air contamination.
Ozone is the main component of smog and is created when organic emissions are exposed to sunlight.
However, the region exceeded the stricter state standard on 24 days. More than half the toxic air contamination in the Bay Area comes from vehicles. Reformulated gasoline requirements, which went into effect in 1996, will help reduce state exceedances, as will alternatives to commuting one person per car. More than 3,000 facilities in Santa Clara County generate hazardous waste. Release of toxic chemicals into our air, land, water or sewage systems can cause public health and environmental hazards.