In the area of Western New York, there is significant air pollution. The air there is polluted by Tonawanda Coke and other nearby factories. The pollution has become so heavy that the residents of these areas have become sick from the poor air quality. A study conducted in Buffalo’s West Side showed that 45% of homes in Buffalo have at least one resident with asthma. Their proximity to the Peace Bridge and the resulting diesel fumes they inhale are most likely the root of this problem. The Clear Air Coalition of Western New York is dedicated to protecting the rights of residents to breathe clean air. They “organize community members and builds diverse coalitions to implement initiatives to reduce environmental hazards.” in order to protect clean air and our right to breathe it. I believe that people should not suffer medically just because of their area of residence. Industrial facilities should take responsibility for the pollutants they produce and take all moral, ethical and possible actions to make their facilities as health and eco-friendly as possible. Poor regulations and enforcement of the rules is what is allowing factories like Tonawanda Coke to get away with polluting our air without restrictions. Also, public awareness about this issue is more than lacking. Standing in the way of success is both the ignorance of the public and the indifference of the companies that are polluting the air. I hope that in signing this petition, you will pledge your support of this pressing issue. The purpose of this petition is raise awareness about the pollution of Western New York’s air and to encourage people to spread the word about this under-rated issue. Thank you for taking the time to educate yourself about the pollution in WNY and signing this petition promising to raise awareness and support this issue as it comes to a larger stage in the future.