81% of Coloradans Live in Ozone-Polluted Areas, Advocates Push for Change
According to the American Lung Association, 81% of Colorado residents live in areas with unhealthy ozone levels, making air pollution a significant concern across the state. Denver ranks 8th and Fort Collins 19th among the most ozone-polluted cities in the United States. Clean air advocates held a press conference at Sunken Gardens Park in Denver to highlight the health impacts of ozone pollution, which include respiratory issues, heart attacks, strokes, and even premature death. The Regional Air Quality Council is developing a 'Control Strategy Blueprint' to address these issues, recommending actions such as using electric vehicles and avoiding outdoor activities during peak ozone hours. The full report is expected to be released in fall 2026. 
