Smoke Readers are volunteers who are trained and certified to recognize and understand visible emissions from smokestacks, what violations look like, and how to file reports. Smoke reading is an excellent way for citizens to take action in their own communities by observing facilities that are of concern to them. Readings by our volunteers increase regulatory scrutiny on polluters, as government inspectors can’t be at every facility at all times.
Here’s a great read-up of the program and what trained citizens can do from The Allegheny Front on December 14, 2018: “The Smoke Readers Who Keep Tabs on Air Pollution.”
Please contact sue@gasp-pgh.org for more information.