PHOENIX (March 14, 2022) –The Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) in partnership with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, is expanding the Mowing Down Pollution program to include commercial lawn and garden equipment. Government entities and businesses can now trade in up to 10 gasoline powered handheld lawn and garden devices per year and receive a $50 voucher for each device toward the purchase of new electric or battery powered alternative.
The program is designed to reduce air pollution caused by gasoline powered lawn and garden equipment. Eligible government entities and businesses can redeem their vouchers at participating Home Depot stores after recycling their gas-powered equipment at one of MCAQD’s designated drop-off locations. MCAQD estimates that by replacing 1,000 commercial handheld lawn and garden devices, 554 tons of ground level ozone causing pollution could be avoided.
The Mowing Down Pollution program will continue to offer Maricopa County residents the opportunity to purchase new electric or battery powered lawn and garden equipment, including lawn mowers, when they turn in old gasoline powered equipment. Residents can apply to receive a $150 voucher towards the cost of a new electric or battery powered mower and $50 towards a handheld garden device at participating Home Depot stores after recycling gas-powered equipment.
“Maricopa County’s air quality has been improving for years despite a growing population, and our Air Quality Department plays a big role in that” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Bill Gates, District 3. “Programs like Mowing Down Pollution are making a measurable difference and helping us ensure clean air for future generations.”
Air pollution reaches high concentration levels during the hot summer months in Maricopa County. MCAQD is encouraging property owners and businesses to be aware of the potential health impacts caused by ground level ozone. Breathing contaminated air may lead to serious health effects and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions.
For more information and how to apply for the Mowing Down Pollution commercial or residential programs, please visit CleanAirMakeMore.com/lawn.
MEDIA CONTACT
Ari Halpert
602-501-1266 cell
602-506-6713 desk
Ari.Halpert@maricopa.gov
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About Maricopa County Air Quality Department
MCAQD’s mission is to improve the air of Maricopa County so customers, residents, and visitors can live, work, and play in a healthy environment. MCAQD is governed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and follows air quality standards set forth by the federal Clean Air Act. For air quality information and resources, visit CleanAirMakeMore.com.
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