This winter, UIPA’s Clean Ports staff had the opportunity to join the Utah Clean Air Partnership (UCAIR) at local schools to support the Idle-Free Program, an initiative to reduce air pollution in school zones. The program, now in its second year, educates students and families on the health and environmental impacts of vehicle idling – particularly in areas, like school pick-up areas, where children may be exposed to exhaust fumes.
This year, the Idle-Free campaign will visit three schools in Salt Lake County for one week each. At the start of the week, students learn about the key sources of air pollution, as well as how to reduce these sources through measures like reducing idling time. The students then carry out a science experiment during school pick-up. They first measure the total amount of time that cars are idling in the school parking lot before student pickup begins. Then, the students lead an educational campaign during school pickup – with staff on hand to provide support – to inform parents and caregivers about the negative impacts of idling. The students hold signs, hand out fliers, and talk one-on-one with families about the benefits of turning off the ignition. This year, the students also handed out winter hats to help everyone stay warm while the engines were off.
Though simple, this intervention is surprisingly effective, as students discover when they complete the final part of the week: re-measuring vehicle idling time to assess the impact of their efforts. Idling rates typically drop significantly as the school community recognizes the big difference this small change can make. Indeed, a recent University of Utah study found that total idling time decreased by an average of 37% at other Utah elementary schools participating in a similar Idle-Free program.
“What makes this program so special is that it connects hands-on learning with real-world impact,” said UCAIR Program Manager Mallory DiazVela, who coordinated the initiative. “Students get excited when they see that their efforts actually make a difference. And for families, it’s a simple reminder that small changes, like turning off your engine while waiting, can go a long way in protecting kids’ health.”
Along with supporting students during their campaign, the UIPA Clean Ports team also had the opportunity to share information with families about Utah’s freight electrification programs, another way the state is working to improve air quality. “We were thrilled to partner with UCAIR and local students on this meaningful initiative,” said Caroline Mackleby, Community Engagement Manager for UIPA’s Clean Ports Program. “Our collaboration this winter showed how everyone has the opportunity to make a difference for the air we breathe, whether it’s a parent turning off their ignition or a truck transitioning to electric power. These small steps add up, helping bring us closer to a clearer Utah sky.”
Though this year’s Idle-Free campaign is wrapping up, UCAIR is just starting another key initiative: its annual grant program to support local air quality improvement projects. The grant program is accepting applications March 1 through April 10, 2026; interested organizations can learn more here
Published: 02/24/26
Author: Caroline Mackleby