Clean Air Action Day represents a chance for North Texans to make simple changes to their daily routines that collectively can have a significant impact on the air they breathe.

The goal is to improve the air quality in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and protect people’s health.

In the Dallas-Fort Worth region, 10 counties fall under nonattainment for the pollutant ozone and are working to meet the standard. Clean Air Action Day is one way the North Central Texas Council of Governments seeks to empower users of the transportation system to contribute to better air.

As residents begin to return to the office throughout the summer, social distancing measures and other Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines remain in place. However, there are simple steps North Texans can take to become part of the solution.

They can take their lunch to work, use mass transit to get to the office or take steps to reduce idling when they do have to drive. Those who are still working from home can incorporate active transportation options such as bicycling or walking when they have to run errands.

North Texans are encouraged to maintain the commitments they make on Aug. 4 throughout ozone season, which ends Nov. 30. A good way to prepare to take action is to sign up for ozone alerts at www.airnorthtexas.org/signup.

After signing up, residents can commit to small changes to their routines to help clear the air by visiting www.airnorthtexas.org/cleanairactionday.

On Clean Air Action Day, share with NCTCOG how you celebrate by using #CAAD2021 and tagging, @NCTCOGtrans. You could win a prize! And remember to log your alternative commutes at www.tryparkingit.com, the region’s alternative-commute and ride-matching site. It is easy to participate on Clean Air Action Day and throughout the year.