Scanlon for Colorado

Category: Climate Change

  • Climate Week Summary

    Last week, the largest climate gathering of the year in America, NY Climate Week, was held in conjunction with the annual United Nations confab aslo in NYC.

    As the Founder of ClimateCon!, (www.climatecon.world) I have an unyielding passion for all things climate and all possible solutions to the biggest challenge humanity faces.

    At the UN last week, the President of the United States showed up and lectured everybody. He said climate change is a “con job”, and frankly, if anyone can spot a con job, you’d think it would be President Trump. He said green energy is a waste of time. He was, as he so often is, wrong wrong and wrong.

    NY Climate Week was largely overshadowed by the UN confab and the disgraceful words from our President. Perhaps they’d be better off on any other week of the year?

    Here in Denver, the next ClimateCon! is February 2, 2026 at the Lowry Conference Center in Denver. Tickets can be purchased at www.climatecon.world. We’ll have over 20 sessions, and we’re already planning sessions around hydrogen automobiles (Colorado is getting its first hydrogen stations any day), Sustainable Air Fuels, Renaming Heat Pumps (they’re air conditioners too!) and so much more, check it all out at www.climatecon.world.

    Colorado continues to be a leader on climate. There are numerous examples, from the Governor’s office to indigineous tribes, Colorado has a number of leaders and initiatives on the climate front.

    And if I’m elected to the Colorado House, climate will be front and center on my list of concerns.

  • The Public Health Crisis Of Our Lifetime – Climate Change

    The air quality all week was horrible due to wildfire smoke that blew into Colorado’s Front Range.

    Here’s a picture looking to the west this morning:

    There are supposed to be Rocky Mountains in this view!! Snow capped Rocky Mountains.

    Some of the wildfires creating this smoke are in Colorado. There are also wildfires burning across the American west – and all over Canada.

    The droughts, the altered rainfall patterns, these consequences of air pollution are forecast only to increase. Because the air pollution that causes these maladies continues to increase. This, when we need to be racing to zero air pollution.

    The effect on all of us is a massive public health crisis.

    If you live in Colorado and you’ve been coughing and wheezing and not feeling well, it very well could be the air quality.

    Key Protection Measures

    Stay Indoors

    • Remaining indoors is one of the most effective ways to reduce exposure to wildfire smoke.
    • Keep windows and doors closed and avoid outdoor activities, especially exercise, when smoke is present.

    HVAC and Air Filters

    • Use the highest-quality filter your HVAC system can handle (MERV 13 or above) to reduce indoor particulate pollution.
    • Regularly change HVAC filters to maintain effectiveness during prolonged smoke events.
    • If possible, run the HVAC system on recirculation mode to prevent intake of outdoor air.
    • Portable HEPA filter air purifiers provide additional protection, especially in bedrooms and central living areas.

    Create a Clean Air Room

    • Designate a room in the home to keep especially clean by sealing windows, and use a portable air purifier or box fan with a high-efficiency filter.

    Masks and Outdoor Activity

    • Wear a properly fitted N95 respirator if outdoor exposure is unavoidable; simple cloth masks do not protect against fine smoke particles.
    • Limit outdoor time and strenuous activity during heavy smoke periods.

    Vehicle and Other Tips

    • When driving, keep windows closed and set the air conditioning to recirculate.
    • Avoid activities such as vacuuming or burning candles, which increase indoor particle levels.

    Special Considerations

    • Older adults, children, and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are at higher risk and should take extra precautions.
    • Monitor local air quality advisories for updates and recommendations.

    Implementing these steps substantially protects against the health hazards posed by wildfire smoke across Colorado.

    Stay safe. And support politicians and policies that advance clean air!