Electric Vehicles: Driving Toward Cleaner Air and Healthier Lungs in Arizona
By Kristen Miraglia, Advocacy Manager | Clean Outdoor Air, American Lung Association
As we face the mounting impacts of climate change, it has become increasingly clear that this crisis is also a public health emergency. Here in Arizona, where air quality challenges persist, our efforts to transition to cleaner transportation options are gaining momentum. One of the most promising solutions is the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), which offer a powerful tool to both mitigate climate change and improve lung health.
Pollution and Its Impact on Health
Transportation is one of the largest sources of harmful air and climate pollution in the United States. Tailpipe emissions from gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles release a mix of pollutants that contribute to the formation of ozone pollution, also known as smog. This form of air pollution poses serious health risks to everyone, but especially to vulnerable groups like children, older adults, and those living with chronic lung diseases such as asthma or COPD.
Ozone pollution doesn’t just cause irritation; it’s linked to life-threatening conditions. High ozone levels can trigger asthma attacks, worsen lung disease, increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and even lead to premature death. In our 2025 State of the Air report, Maricopa, Pima, Pinal, and Gila counties all received failing grades for ozone pollution. Maricopa County ranked 6th worst in the nation for the number of high ozone days, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Benefits of EV Transportation
In our report, Zeroing in on Healthy Air, the American Lung Association detailed the significant public health and climate benefits of widespread transportation electrification. In Arizona alone, our state could see an estimated $15.1 billion in cumulative public health benefits through reduced pollution. This would include preventing more than 1,360 premature deaths, 38,500 asthma attacks, and over 182,000 lost workdays - powerful reminders of how clean air translates directly into healthier lives and stronger communities.
Arizonans recognize the promise of this clean transportation future. In December, the American Lung Association released polling that showed strong bipartisan support among Arizona voters for policies that accelerate the transition to electric vehicles and expand public charging infrastructure. These results reflect a growing consensus that investments in EVs are not only good for the environment, but also for our economy and our health.
The benefits are clear: cleaner vehicles mean cleaner air, and cleaner air means healthier lungs. As Arizona continues to make strides toward a zero-emission transportation future, the positive impact on public health will be profound. Every step we take toward electrifying our roads is a step toward breathing easier.
Visit https://www.lung.org/ to learn more about the work of the American Lung Association.