One Peoria area commission wants public and private entities to take a more proactive role in reducing pollution to help protect the earth's ozone layer. It's asking local communities to participate in the Clean Air Action initiative.

In an effort to protect the air from further pollutants during the warm season the Tri–County Regional Planning Commission wants residents, governments and businesses to cut down on emissions.

"Anytime you can take the bus that will help, car pooling telecommuting.
Things like cutting back on your use of oil based paints and solvents especially on high ozone days that will help," said John Chambers, Tri-County Planning Commission.

Chambers says residents can listen to weather reports to find out if clean air action alerts are mentioned on days when the ozone levels are higher.

Mayors in local communities have embraced the initiative and some have already implemented green programs.

"We actually now are looking at our fleet and measures that we can conserve on fuel and anywhere else that we can decrease the ozone level. We are looking at that and studying it," said Dave Mingus, East Peoria Mayor.

The Commission has also solicited the help of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses to participate in the Clean Air Action Initiative.

"The Regional Planning Commission has come up with a list of 12 things that individuals and companies can do that when we have days where our ozone levels are high or on any day. We'll certainly share that information with our members," said Roberta Parks, Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce.

Members say by continuing to limit the consumption and dispensing of gasoline and related fuels...air quality will be good and increase the standard of living for Central Illinois residents.