What is the Breathe Better (B2) Program?

Breathe Better (B2) is an anti-idling-clean air campaign/program focused on protecting public health on school campuses and at local businesses in South Carolina. Idling means that a vehicle's engine is turned on and creating pollution but the vehicle is not in motion. An idling vehicle waste gas and produces harmful emissions that negatively affects air quality.

Mobile sources such as personal vehicles, school buses and delivery trucks are major contributors to air pollution in South Carolina. Vehicle exhaust contains many pollutants that are linked to asthma and other lung diseases, allergies, heart disease, and other health problems. 

Why should my school or business participate?

For schools, large numbers of vehicles idle on school campuses during daily arrival and dismissal. Students, parents, faculty, and bus drivers are exposed to higher levels of vehicle exhaust at these times. Children are more sensitive to air pollution than adults because they breathe more (relative to body size) and their lungs are still developing. Also, asthma is a common chronic illness in children and a significant cause of school absences.

For businesses, a large volume of deliveries may occur in a single day. Vehicle exhaust can be drawn into air vents, particularly from loading areas, and accumulate in the building.
Implementing the emission reduction strategies recommended by the Breathe Better Program helps to reduce air pollution. Reducing harmful emissions also ensures a healthy learning and work environment for everyone. 

How does it work? 

Visit the “B2 for Schools” page for more information and to register. Once the registration is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email which will include your activity list and the necessary materials will be sent to your school.

Visit the “Breathe Better for Businesses” page for more information and to register. Once the registration is submitted, your business will receive a confirmation email and Anti-Idling signs. 

Contact

Amy Curran
curranaa@dhec.sc.gov
beathebetter@dhec.sc.gov
803-898-1644