Jump to full article: The Exponent (Purdue U.), 2008-03-24
Author: Mikel Livingston Executive Reporter
Intro: Publication Date: 03/24/2008
A recent study shows a significant drop in air pollution following last year's city-wide smoking ban, raising the issue of Purdue's own possible smoke-free future.
The study, conducted by Indiana Tobacco Prevention and Cessation in cooperation with the Roswell Park Cancer Institute, shows a 94 percent decrease in indoor air pollution after the passage of West Lafayette smoking ban legislation.
Air pollution levels, measured in micrograms per cubic meter or PMs, were tested in seven bars and restaurants once prior and twice after the smoking ban's July 1 implementation.
Before the smoking ban, average indoor air pollution stood at 179 PM, a "very unhealthy" classification according to the Environmental Protection Agency's Air Quality Index. Following the ban, pollution levels dropped to an average of 6 to 11 PM, a "moderate" classification on the scale.
"I think it confirmed what we thought would happen," said former city councilor Patti O'Callaghan, who introduced the smoking ban during her time on the West Lafayette City Council.
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