The 17th Annual Governor’s Idle Free Declaration for the 2024-2025 Winter Season took place at Laub Plaza in Logan, UT on September 3rd, 2024. The event included a reading of the Governor’s Declaration alongside key notes from air quality advocates. 

“Our Idle Free campaign is a shining example of grassroots efforts leading to big change,” said Tammie Bostick, Executive Director of Utah Clean Cities. “What started in 2006 with a fifth grade class, a few city mayors, and concerned citizens has evolved into a statewide movement creating a legacy of sustainability and health for everyone. With support from clean air advocates, government officials, and everyday Utahns, we’ve distributed over 50,000 decals and 700 signs, spreading the Idle Free message far and wide.”

“On behalf of UCAIR, we’re thrilled to support Idle-Free Month again,” said Lindsie Smith, Executive Director of UCAIR. “Reducing idling time is an easy, effective way to improve our air quality, and it makes a real difference.”

The “Turn Your Key, Be Idle Free” initiative has gained traction across Utah, with 11 cities adopting Idle Free ordinances, including Logan. Logan City Mayor Holly Daines said, “Logan’s Idle-Free Ordinance demonstrates our commitment to clean air. I’m proud that we’ve maintained this effort since 2014. Every step we take brings us closer to a cleaner, more resilient city. By turning off engines, we’re not just reducing emissions; we’re actively contributing to a healthier, more sustainable, and vibrant community.”

“Air quality isn’t just a statistic—it’s the air we breathe every day. Taking steps to be idle free is a commitment to our health and the well-being of future generations,” encouraged Bryce Bird, Executive Director of Utah Division of Air Quality. “Every time we choose to turn the key and be idle free, we’re pushing back against the harmful effects of pollution, especially during our winter inversions. It’s a small effort with a big impact.”​ Bird read the 17th Annual Declaration for Idle Free Month and Season 2024-2025.

Empowering The Next Generation

This year’s event marked the 10th anniversary of the Utah High School Clean Air Marketing Contest and celebrated major milestones like the state’s 100% Idle Free school bus system and the deployment of air quality sensors across critical areas.

Edwin Stafford, Marketing Professor at Utah State University highlighted the contest’s growth. “Starting with just 75 contestants at Logan High School, it now engages over 1,000 students annually, making a significant impact on air quality education. ” He declared “Idle-free driving is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce local air pollution. Through this contest, students learn that every small action counts and that by choosing to carpool, trip-chain, or even bike instead of driving alone, they are contributing to a healthier, cleaner Utah. Our research on the outcomes of the contest indicates that teens report they are more aware and willing to engage in clean air actions after participating in the contest.”

Bridging Today and Tomorrow

Fawn Groves, Education & Community Specialist of ASPIRE emphasized combining technology with everyday actions. “At ASPIRE, we’re pushing the boundaries of transportation electrification—from electric trains to wireless charging for drayage trucks. Yet, the simplest act of going idle free is still one of the most powerful tools we all have to improve air quality right now.  Fawn asserted, “Innovation drives us forward, but true progress comes from combining cutting-edge technology with everyday actions. Going idle free is a powerful complement to our electric vehicle projects, ensuring cleaner air for everyone as we transform transportation.”

Utah’s air pollution challenges are unique due to topography, traffic volume, and population density. Vehicle emissions, particularly from idling, significantly contribute to air pollution. While innovative projects like those led by ASPIRE are crucial, reducing unnecessary idling remains one of the most immediate and impactful ways to improve air quality.

According to data from Utah Clean Cities’ 2023 annual report, the “Turn Your Key, Be Idle Free” program curtailed 685,130 pounds of criteria pollutants in 2022 alone. Over the past year, the program collectively reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by over 44,300 tons, equivalent to 3,713,216 gallons of gasoline.