If you happened to glance at Mt. Sentinel on the night of February 6, you might have noticed a flurry of lights—people racing up and down the mountain for an event called Running Up for Air (RUFA). This annual challenge, which attracted nearly 200 participants, is all about raising awareness for our valley’s air quality and climate health. These athletes are motivated, not crazy!
Just as they were climbing, another shocking decision was brewing in Washington. Days later, the Trump administration moved to revoke the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Endangerment Finding. This finding has been crucial since 2009, establishing that climate-warming emissions are dangerous to public health. By trying to take it back, the administration essentially said that the interests of fossil fuel companies are more important than the wellbeing of Americans.
Ignoring decades of research and previous Supreme Court decisions, the administration oversimplified the costs of clean energy. They failed to consider the far bigger price tag that comes from air pollution and climate change. In fact, air pollution is responsible for around 100,000 deaths annually in the U.S. That’s more than traffic accidents and homicides combined. The economic cost? A staggering $1 trillion each year, according to a report from Yale Climate Connections.
In western Montana, we’re all too familiar with air quality issues. During winter, we face pollution trapped by cold air inversions. In summer, wildfire smoke brings harmful particulate matter. These challenges are compounded by climate change, which also fuels catastrophic weather events. From flooding to extreme wildfires, our connection to the environment is direct and vital.
What’s puzzling is how some companies, like NorthWestern Energy, are also resisting the shift to cleaner energy. Their recent Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) ignores the economic benefits of renewable energy, emphasizing the expansion of fossil fuels instead. But Montanans are waking up. Many are pushing back against this misinformation, demanding accountability and sustainable solutions for our air and water.
A recent survey found that 71% of Montanans view climate change as a serious threat, with a strong preference for solar energy. People are ready to make changes and hold authorities accountable.
As experts and community leaders rally together, it’s clear that local action matters. Events like the upcoming Stand Up For Science rally on March 7 highlight the growing public interest in environmental issues. Together, we can advocate for our health and push for policies that protect our future.
We all have a role in shaping a healthier, more sustainable world. Engaging in conversations, sharing knowledge, and taking action can tip the scales toward a clean energy future. With collective voices and efforts, we can create the change we want to see.
For more resources and online activism, check out Climate Smart Missoula. Together, let’s embrace our power to craft a bright future for ourselves, our children, and the stunning landscapes we cherish.
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