Colorado Environmental Health Resources Highlighted for Earth Day

CDPHE highlights environmental health resources on Earth Day

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Submitted by [user:fieldfirstname]

Denver (April 22, 2026): On Earth Day, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is highlighting programs and resources that help protect environmental health across Colorado and support healthier communities statewide.

“Protecting environmental health means addressing the conditions where people live, work, and play,” said Patrick Cummins, director of Environmental Health and Protection at CDPHE. “From reducing pollution to expanding access to safe water and healthy homes, our focus is on practical solutions that improve health outcomes for communities across Colorado.”

“Air quality is one of the most direct connections between environmental conditions and public health,” said Michael Ogletree, senior director of State Air Quality Programs at CDPHE. “We are working to reduce emissions, expand monitoring, and provide clear, timely information so Coloradans can make informed decisions about their health.”

Addressing air pollution

CDPHE develops and implements requirements to protect air quality and monitors air quality in communities across the state using advanced technology.

• Visit the public participation opportunities web page to get involved or subscribe to air quality email updates.
• Track wildfire and regional smoke through the Colorado Smoke Blog.
• Sign up for air quality alerts.
• Access air quality data and community resources.

Ensuring healthy water

CDPHE’s Water Quality Control Division implements state and federal standards to protect drinking water.

• Private well owners can access free PFAS testing and, if eligible, free water filters.
• The Test and Fix Water for Kids program has tested drinking water at more than 4,500 schools and child care centers, protecting more than 700,000 children from lead exposure.

Supporting all communities

CDPHE uses data and targeted investments to address environmental health disparities.

• Colorado EnviroScreen identifies communities most affected by pollution and helps guide decision-making.
• The Environmental Justice Grant Program dashboard supports community-led solutions, with a new grant cycle opening soon.

Promoting sustainability

CDPHE works with businesses and communities to reduce emissions and improve efficiency.

• The Colorado Green Business Network provides free coaching and technical assistance. In 2025, participants reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50,000 metric tons.
• The Colorado Circular Communities Enterprise offers grant funding and technical support to help transition to a circular economy.

Reducing environmental health risks at home

CDPHE provides tools and assistance to help residents reduce exposure to environmental hazards.

• Discounted radon test kits are available statewide.
• The Low-Income Radon Mitigation Assistance Program helps eligible households cover mitigation costs. CDPHE encourages the public to participate in decision-making through engagement opportunities listed on its online calendar.

###

Recent

CDPHE to send reminder texts and emails about routine vaccines to parents and guardians

Messages urge families to get their children vaccinated for school.

Colorado approves measures to control toxic air pollution from key industries

Denver (April 17, 2026): The Colorado Air Quality Control Commission has adopted measures to control emissions of five

Colorado public health officials identify measles case in Weld County resident

Additional public exposures possible in Larimer County.