Make Clean Air Part of Your Holiday Season

Published on October 23, 2026

Woman outside looking at air quality forecast on her Phone

As the holiday season approaches, consider making clean-air choices when traveling, shopping, and doing everyday activities. With ozone season still underway, ground-level ozone levels are higher, affecting air quality and health.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that household waste in the U.S. increases by 25 percent during the holiday season. Waste buried in landfills over time becomes methane emissions, which contribute to poor air quality.

When air quality declines, sensitive groups, including children and older adults, may experience:

Difficulty breathing
Eye discomfort
Coughing
Chest tightness
Throat irritation

Small actions can impact your health and environment. Here are some Clean Air Tips you can try:

Carpool with friends or family to events or parties.
Combine errands to make fewer trips.
Avoid idling whenever possible.
Create your own décor from items in your home.
Decorate with energy-efficient LED lights.

Air Quality Index with different levels of colors from healthy to unhealthy.

Stay safe and check the air quality forecast before heading outdoors. Sign up for air quality alerts and learn more by visiting Air North Texas.