This week none of us is breathing easy because of the life-threateningly high levels of PM 2.5 that are accumulating in our valley air ("Cleaner air lengthens lives, study suggests," Tribune , Jan. 22). During weeks like this it is obvious that the strategies we are employing to protect our air quality and the health of Utahns are not enough.

I urge the Utah Legislature and Gov. Jon Huntsman to make it a priority this legislative session to set higher standards than the National Ambient Air Quality Standards set by the federal Environmental Protection Agency. Utah has unique geographical and meteorological conditions that, in conjunction with our polluting cars and industry, create the dangerous smog that right now we all breathe and see. The national standards set in Washington do not adequately protect us.

Let's stop relying on the EPA and use the resources, ingenuity and determination of Utahns to solve our own problems and improve our health and quality of life.

Travis Anna Harvey

Brighton