Print Window Close Window Did you know . . . The diesel fuel sold in Alaska causes six times more air pollution than that sold in any other state. Particulates from diesel exhaust have been shown to cause asthma, lung cancer and genetic mutations. Children who ride school buses (which are all diesel fueled) are at particular risk. Did you know . . . The average American throws away about 1200 pounds of garbage every year, and burns about 9000 pounds of fossil fuels for heating, personal vehicle use, and electricity. Consumption in Alaska is even higher than the national average. Did you know . . . The Chena River and Noyes Slough have both been listed as impaired water bodies by the US Environmental Protection Agency. They are polluted with oil, grease, urban runoff, septic tank contamination, and sediment. Did you know . . . Alaska is already feeling the effects of global warming, as permafrost melts, sea ice retreats, and weather patterns change. Even small changes in climate can profoundly alter ecosystems, increasing the chances of insect infestations, fires, floods, and extinctions. Did you know . . . If all Americans kept their vehicles’ tires inflated to the proper pressure, we would save more oil than is thought to be obtainable from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. If fuel efficiency standards were raised to 39 mpg for auto manufacturers, we could save up to 10 times that amount. Did you know . . . Production of a pop can from recycled aluminum takes only 10% of the energy of making a new one. Did you know . . . Two-stroke engines (most commonly used in boats, off-road vehicles, and yard equipment) dump 1/3 of their fuel unburned into the air or water. Did you know . . . Camp Habitat, co-sponsored by the Northern Alaska Environmental Center, Friends of Creamers Field, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, runs nature education summer programs for kids aged 4 – 15. Did you know . . . Fairbanks often has the worst carbon monoxide pollution when the temperature is between zero and 20 above. Remembering to plug in your car at these relatively “warm” temperatures can greatly improve the air we breathe. Did You Know. . . The newest and most efficient wood stoves on the market release less than 1/6 the toxic air pollution of older and less efficient models. Did you know . . . Over 220 species of birds have been observed in Interior Alaska, with more than 30 species remaining year-round. Did you know . . . Residents of Interior Alaska are dependent of natural ecosystems; we hunt, fish, and gather over 7 million pounds of wild foods every year for personal consumption. |