California’s local air districts came together at the State Capitol in Sacramento this summer to showcase the innovative technologies, programs, and partnerships helping improve air quality and protect public health.
On August 3, the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) in partnership with South Coast AQMD and Assemblymember José Luis Solache hosted the first Clean Air, Clean Solutions Showcase at the California State Capitol. The free public event brought together local air quality agencies, clean technology companies, elected officials and industry partners to demonstrate how innovation is helping advance clean air solutions at the local level.
South Coast AQMD joined air districts from across the state to highlight programs and technologies designed to reduce emissions, advance environmental justice, and support a stronger, cleaner economy. The event also highlighted the critical role state funding and public-private partnerships play in accelerating the turnover of older, higher-emitting vehicles and equipment by helping businesses, public agencies, schools, and other organizations invest in cleaner technologies that improve air quality while supporting California's economy.
The showcase featured incentive programs, educational exhibits, air monitoring demonstrations, and hands-on activities that helped visitors learn about clean air solutions and the work of local air districts. Exhibits showcased zero-emission Class 8 heavy-duty trucks, municipal vehicles such as waste haulers and street sweepers, electric emergency response vehicles, agricultural equipment, and other advanced clean technologies.
Demonstrations of air monitoring sensors and mobile monitoring platforms showed visitors how air quality is assessed during incidents such as wildfires, industrial fires, and hazardous material releases. Educational exhibits highlighting the Community Air Protection Program (AB 617) and local efforts to improve air quality in communities disproportionately impacted by air pollution.
Visitors also learned about the role of air districts in reducing smoke impacts and supporting prescribed (beneficial) fires to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health, as well as the Blue Whales Blue Skies partnership, which works to reduce emissions while protecting wildlife.
Interactive activities, including the Global Inheritance Clean Energy Playground and the Passport to Clean Air Challenge, encouraged visitors to explore the exhibits and learn more about clean technologies and air quality programs.
By bringing local air districts, state leaders, communities, industry partners and clean technology companies together, the Clean Air, Clean Solutions Showcase demonstrated the work underway across California to achieve cleaner air and protect public health. The event also highlighted the value of collaboration and innovation in creating cleaner, healthier communities across the state.