Can an individual really make an impact on air pollution/traffic congestion?
Yes. The 1996 Olympics are an excellent example of the difference that individuals make. Despite having 1 million more people in Atlanta and some of the highest temperatures of the summer, the metro area did not record a smog exceedence during the Olympics due to the fact that residents chose commute alternatives such as transit and businesses implemented commute options programs including teleworking and compressed work weeks. The region experienced a 22% reduction in driving and a 28% reduction in ozone concentrations. According to a study conducted by the American Lung Association, this resulted in a 42% decrease in emergency room visits for children with asthma at various hospitals throughout the region.
