Connecting the Dots for change
Clearing the Air: Mapping Pollution's Impact
“Clearing the Air” is a grassroots environmental risk assessment led by EcoSavvy, designed to uncover how pollution is impacting health and quality of life in Jasper County and the Tri-State Mining District. By combining GIS mapping, community surveys, and historical analysis, we’re connecting decades of environmental damage—like legacy mining waste, industrial emissions, and contaminated soil—to the real stories and health struggles of the people who live here.
This isn’t just a research project, it’s a movement. “Clearing the Air” transforms community voices into data-driven advocacy tools that can influence public health decisions, environmental cleanup priorities, and local policy. We believe that every resident deserves clean air, safe soil, and the right to know what’s in their environment.
Our vision is one where rural communities are no longer overlooked, and where scientific evidence meets lived experience to demand change. Whether you’re a resident, researcher, or decision-maker, you have a role in this story. Your input helps illuminate environmental injustices and build a safer future for the next generation.
EcoSavvy is proud to lead this work with transparency, compassion, and precision — because healing begins with truth. Together, we are clearing the air.
Why We’re Clearing the Air
This is the map that helped me find my path in this life. In 2017, I miscarried a sweet baby boy, and they told me there was no reason why, sometimes these things just happen. And while I have come to understand that to be true sometimes; there is a part of me that can’t get behind the “No reason why”
So I started looking into infant loss and infertility rates in America and was surprised when I found this map. This was the first map that changed how I viewed the world around me. I wanted to understand why infertility rates are higher in the south, in our farming states or along waterways. I decided I had to go to college to understand the science behind it.
Who would have known I’d learn to make these maps one day.
Now I have launched my “Clearing the Air” environmental risk survey, because I want to know if there are factors at play that we don’t understand that are causing us to lose our babies, with “no reason why”
I believe there’s more reasons then we know, maybe it’s that we grew up playing in mining waste or living in a factory hub.
If you haven’t already, please consider taking my survey. Let your voice be heard and let’s clear the air together 🫶💛
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How You Can Help
Step 1
Participate in Surveys
Contribute valuable data by completing our environmental surveys.
Step 2
Share Your Story
Help raise awareness by sharing personal experiences with pollution.
Step 3
Support Air Monitoring
Fund or volunteer for air quality testing initiatives in your area.
Community Voices
“Participating in this initiative has opened my eyes to the environmental challenges our community faces. It’s empowering to see our collective efforts making a difference.”
“Being a part of the air monitoring project has been rewarding. It’s amazing to see how data can drive change and improve our health.”
“I shared my story and found a community of people who care deeply about our environment. Together, we’re making our voices heard.”
“This project has given me hope. Knowing that our actions today can lead to a healthier tomorrow for our children is invaluable.”
“I never realized how much impact local pollution had until I got involved. Now, I’m committed to spreading awareness and taking action.”
“The initiative has brought our community together in ways I never imagined. It’s inspiring to see neighbors unite for a common cause.”
Downloadable Resources
Pollution 101: Understanding Local Risks
EPA Superfund Information
Health Department Findings
Tools for Home Testing
Community Action Toolkit
Air Quality Monitoring Guide
Soil and Water Testing Methods
Local Environmental Impact Reports
Guide to Reducing Household Pollution
Sustainable Living Tips
How to Get Involved Locally
Environmental Health and Safety
DIY Air Quality Improvements
Understanding Pollution Data
Community Engagement Strategies
Funding Opportunities for Projects
Educational Materials for Schools
Volunteer Training Manuals
Upcoming Community Events
Air Monitor Installation Day
November 15, 2023
FREE
Community Cleanup Day
December 3, 2023
FREE
Public Meeting on Pollution Findings
January 10, 2024
FREE
Art and Poetry Night: Clearing the Air
February 14, 2024
FREE
Stay Updated with Our Movement
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