Temperatures are on the rise. And so too is our children’s screen time. With the seemingly inescapable heat and humidity, it can be tricky to convince our kids, and ourselves, to put down the devices and get outdoors. But it’s important for us to keep moving — not only for our own physical and emotional wellbeing, but for the health of our communities, too. 

Enter Ozone Action Days. Each May, Metroplan kicks off this public awareness campaign to encourage central Arkansas families to take voluntary emission-reduction actions — from biking to walking — to reduce harmful ground-level ozone and help us breathe easier. This summer, we’re sharing four social distancing-approved ways to participate:

1. Hit the trails: There’s no better way to enjoy Arkansas’s natural beauty than from a paved path or hiking trail. These outdoor amenities are easily accessible by bike or foot and can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities.
   
   

2. Pack a picnic: Spend quality time as a family by turning lunch or dinner into a backyard picnic. Walk to a neighborhood restaurant to pick up your favorite meal or, as a bonus activity, cook the meal together at home.
   
   

3. Plant a garden: Develop your green thumbs by creating an at-home garden, complete with air-purifying green and flowering plants. Cut back on emissions by using electric, battery or manual equipment instead of gas-powered tools.
   
   

4. Chalk it out: Since the onset of COVID-19, we’ve seen families share words of love and encouragement with chalk messages. Jump on board with this trend by creating an OAD-inspired mural to motivate your neighbors to help protect air quality in our region.

La’Kesha Stewart oversees public outreach for Metroplan, an association of local governments that serves as a regional voice on issues affecting Central Arkansas. For more information about Ozone Action Days and how to participate, visit MetroPlan.org.