May 4 – 8, 2026
Protecting the air we breathe starts with awareness and action. During Air Quality Awareness Week 2026, communities across the country are encouraged to learn about air quality, take steps to protect their health, and support cleaner air for everyone.
This year’s celebration highlights how air quality affects our daily lives — from wildfire smoke and asthma to indoor air quality and environmental protection.
Hosted in partnership with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and state and local air agencies nationwide.
Daily Themes
Monday, May 4
Wildland Fires and Smoke
Wildfire smoke can impact communities hundreds of miles away and create serious health risks, especially for children, older adults, and people with respiratory or heart conditions.
Featured Resources
- Fire and Smoke Map
View real-time smoke conditions, PM2.5 monitor data, smoke plumes, and wildfire information. - AirNow Wildfires Resources
Learn how to prepare before, during, and after wildfire smoke events. - Smoke-Ready Toolbox for Wildfires
Access guides, fact sheets, infographics, and public health materials. - NASA Earthdata Wildfires Information
- NOAA Fire Weather Outlook
Tuesday, May 5
Asthma and Your Health
Clean air is essential for healthy lungs and healthy lives. Tuesday also recognizes World Asthma Day 2026, organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA).
2026 Theme
“Access to anti-inflammatory inhalers for everyone with asthma – still an urgent need.”
Learn More
Take Action
- Check your local air quality forecast daily
- Sign up for air quality alerts
- Limit outdoor activity when pollution levels are high
- Follow your asthma action plan
Wednesday, May 6
Indoor Air Quality
Americans spend most of their time indoors, making indoor air quality an important part of overall health.
Resources
- EPA Indoor Air Quality
- Care for Your Air Guide
- Indoor Air Quality Demo House
- Wildfires and Indoor Air Quality
- DIY Corsi-Rosenthal Box Guide
Tips for Cleaner Indoor Air
- Replace HVAC filters regularly
- Reduce indoor smoke and combustion sources
- Use exhaust fans when cooking
- Ventilate your home when outdoor air quality is good
- Consider portable air cleaners during smoke events
Thursday, May 7
Air, Animals and Plants
Clean air supports healthy ecosystems, wildlife habitats, forests, crops, and scenic landscapes.
Explore More
- EnviroAtlas
Interactive maps and tools connecting ecosystems and environmental health. - EPA Visibility & Regional Haze Program
- National Park Service Air Resources
Why It Matters
Air pollution can reduce visibility, damage sensitive ecosystems, and impact plants and animals across the country.
Friday, May 8
Celebrating Clean Air Progress
Association of Air Pollution Control Agencies will release the 2026 edition of:
State Air Trends & Successes (StATS) Report
The report highlights how state and local air agencies continue to improve air quality across the United States since the passage of the Clean Air Act of 1970.
Learn More
Visit the official Air Quality Awareness Week webpage: