Take Action - Breathe Project

Nothing is more important in improving our air than the voice of our citizens. Breathe Project supports and promotes the work of Breathe Collaborative members. We empower concerned individuals to take action on their own — and spread the word to friends and neighbors.

Featured Action

Tell the EPA to BAN VINYL CHLORIDE! – DEADLINE OCT 23 TODAY Five of the train cars that derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, on Feb. 3, 2023, were carrying vinyl chloride, a known human carcinogen used almost exclusively to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic. Following the burning, residents immediately begin exhibiting health problems that continue to plague the community. It’s time for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ban vinyl chloride. Please join us in urging the EPA to take the critical first step in banning this toxic chemical before any more harm is done.

What You Can Do

Contact ACHD About Your Air Quality

Download the Smell App on your mobile device and report bad air when you smell it.

In Pittsburgh and Allegheny County, report an air problem to the Allegheny County Health Department using the preferred online form or call 412-687-ACHD.

Report Concerns on Shell Cracker

For Shell cracker issues or anything outside of Allegheny County, call in a complaint to the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) at 412-442-4184. For emergencies call 724-775-1700 or file a complaint form.

Write a Letter to the Editor/Op-Ed

The editorial page is one of the most widely read parts of the newspaper. A letter to the editor is usually about 100-200 words, and an op-ed is generally 600-800 words. Look up your paper’s letter submission process and carefully follow the instructions.

Contact Your State Rep

Call, email or visit your representatives at the local, state and national level and let them know what’s on your mind.

Pennsylvania Citizen Toolkit

The Environmental Integrity Project is helping citizens, advocacy groups and elected officials prepare for expanding oil and gas operations. Find facts on operations, permitting approval processes and more.

How to Provide Public Comment

Submitting a written comment is a way to make a powerful impact in your community. The Group Against Smog and Pollution has an excellent guide to commenting on air permits for oil and natural gas facilities.

Attend A Public Meeting

Stay up to date on public meetings, permit hearings or other events through the Breathe Project. Attending or speaking at a public meeting or hearing will help ensure your voice is heard.