By Chais Gentner

PHOENIX, Ariz. — During the holidays, Phoenix becomes the destination spot for those dodging the cold weather. Phoenicians prefer to use the term “snowbirds” for these particular individuals. Flocking from their nests to enjoy an ice-scraping-free winter in the valley of the sun. However, their migration influences our city’s air.

Arizona State University organized the most recent study of population increase due to snowbirds over 10 years ago. Conducted after the 2003-2004 winter season, the study showed that population expanded by approximately 300,000 visitors who stay 5-6 months out of the year.

Although these seasonal visitors bring a substantial economic growth to our city, $1 billion to be exact, it still leaves a significant deficit on our air quality. In layman’s terms, more people means more cars and more cars means more air pollution.

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality estimates that 10 to 14 percent of the cars driving in Maricopa County are registered out of the area. That number may seem small, but as of June 2017, Phoenix has been ranked 5th in the nation for the worst pollution. Meaning that cities in the Maricopa County have had the most high-ozone days with an average of almost 35 days a year, according to the American Lung Association. These facts alone are appropriate enough reasons for the Maricopa County to have such high standards for passing emissions testing.

Phoenix wants to continue being a home in the winter for snowbirds. That is why instead of having to register after living here for five or six months, the Arizona Department of Transportation’s (ADOT’s) policy has been changed to seven months. Therefore, there is no requirement for temporary residents to register their cars here — though that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t.

“As a server, I appreciate the time of year snowbirds are here because of the business my restaurant receives but they don’t understand the effect their vehicles have on our city. I would prefer they take advantage of our light rail system or that ADOT change their policy to 5 months,” said Phoenix resident, Samantha Partin.

Snowbirds aren’t evil for wanting to enjoy their winters in our warm, beautiful city. However, they could make small adjustments in their time spent here in the city to reduce their carbon footprint, just like everyone else. And most are willing to do so.

Cam Campbell and his wife Celeste have lived in Calgary, Alberta Canada for the last 45 years and travel to Scottsdale for 4-5 months out of the year. “We do, as of this year, own a vehicle in Arizona and is registered in Arizona and has passed the emissions tests and will continue to get it inspected as required,” said Cam.

As an architect specializing in environmental design and build, Cam believes in doing what needs to be done to reduce emissions worldwide. “I actually started a network of Architects in Canada that the initial premise was for advancements in environmental design and build.” Not everyone has the same eco-friendly intentions as the Campbells, but they certainly can try.

Getting cars passed through emissions is a big way that snowbirds can reduce their carbon footprint here in Phoenix. They can also turn to public transportation as well as carpooling methods like mentioned above.

Sam Nuanez, communications lead of The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality says that while “snowbirds” may contribute to this activity, the behavior pattern is common to anyone who owns a house with a fireplace, fire pit, or chiminea, and who grew up with the traditions of burning during the holiday, regardless of whether they live here year-round or just during the “cooler” months.

Chais Gentner is a journalism student at the Walter Cronkite School at Arizona State University. She enjoys using her voice to write about issues pertaining to climate change, sustainability and politics.