Clean air
Improving air quality for healthier communities and a healthier planet
Acterra's Clean Air Program is dedicated to monitoring and improving air quality across the Bay Area. By addressing the harmful effects of pollution, this program aims to protect public health, enhance environmental quality, and promote sustainable practices. Our efforts include installing air quality monitors, raising community awareness, and collaborating with local organizations to develop effective solutions. Together, we strive to ensure cleaner, healthier air for all residents.
Our Current Project Highlights
Acterra’s AQTerra initiative, supported by the California Air Resources Board, is bridging the gap between scientific data and community action. By installing 10 high-precision air quality monitors across San José - primarily at schools and community hubs - we are providing neighbors and students with the localized data they need to understand and advocate for a healthier environment.
Program Success & Student Impact:
In 2026, we launched a four-week student-led research initiative that empowered 53 students across Evergreen Valley High School and Independence High School to take ownership of their local air quality.
Using the Clarity Dashboard, students moved beyond the classroom to analyze real-world pollutant data (PM2.5 and NO2), research local drivers like traffic and construction, and develop evidence-based community recommendations.
Key Outcomes:
- Skill Building: Through hands-on analysis, 60% of participating students reported significant improvements in data literacy, research, and critical thinking.
- Deepened Awareness: 96% of participants indicated a better understanding of environmental health, with many students identifying the direct link between urban planning, income levels, and air quality disparities.
- Actionable Solutions: Students translated their findings into concrete recommendations, ranging from "no-idling" policies at school drop-off zones to long-term advocacy for electric school buses and improved public transit infrastructure.
Testimonials
The impact of this program is best reflected in the words of our participants:
I learned about how interconnected air quality is locally... an increase in pollutants near Yerba Buena HS can clearly be noticed tens of miles away. I also learned about how income is directly tied to average air quality.
Through analyzing the data, I was able to come up with conclusions regarding air quality and surrounding causes such as increased traffic or waste from construction projects.
I learned that air quality is very important for people's health and steps must be taken to manage it... Protected bike lanes with REAL barriers to make it safer to bike, zoning reform to help increase density... Also more regulations on pollution!
Partners
Our Partners
Acterra secured Round 2 funding from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) to expand its efforts in providing air filtration units to vulnerable communities under California’s AB617 program. In partnership with Cristo Rey High School, Pittsburg Unified School District, and the Vietnamese American Community Center of the East Bay, Acterra distributed over 90 air filters to Bay Area neighborhoods most affected by air pollution. Building on this success, Acterra collaborated with Breathe California and the Vietnamese American Community Center to distribute an additional 40 air filters to East Bay residents. This follows our previous distribution of 47 filters to households in East San Jose during Round 1.
In addition to the air filters, recipients were provided with detailed manufacturer specifications, as well as guidance on safe use and maintenance to ensure maximum effectiveness of the units.
Through this partnership, Acterra and the Air District are working to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, including wildfire smoke, for the Bay Area’s most vulnerable populations. These programs contribute to improving indoor air quality, lowering rates of pollution-related illnesses, and reducing medical costs and absenteeism for workers.
Want to make an impact in your community? Join our team of passionate volunteers, staff, or interns. Contact us to learn more.