Ozone is the primary pollutant in smog which forms in a reaction of fuel emissions, high temperature and sunlight. As a Smog Watch participant, the City of Seattle is taking action to help keep summer air clean.
People breathe dirty air.
Those who suffer the most are those with lung diseases like asthma and other respiratory problems. Non-attainment is an impediment to economic growth because the region is subject to more stringent regulatory requirements. For businesses, it's tougher to get emissions permits. Elevated ozone levels inhibit plant growth and can cause damage to forests. On very hot summer days, sunlight and emissions from motor vehicles, lawn mowers, industry, paints, solvents and gasoline fumes combine to create smog.