Each month, we highlight a new Supermom of the Month, a Moms Clean Air Force volunteer who has gone above and beyond to advocate for clean air and children’s health.
This month, we are celebrating Karina Martinez. Karina, a PhD candidate at the University of Arizona, was nominated by Arizona field organizer Ida Sami. Karina has authored two op-eds for Moms, joined Ida at Moms Clean Air Force tables at local events, provided testimonies on important clean air standards at EPA, and is a key liaison with the Latino community in Tucson. She uses her platform and expertise to champion Moms’ issues, from advocating for stronger environmental regulations to mobilizing the local Latino community in support of clean air initiatives.
We asked Karina a few questions about her motivation and activism:
How did you first become interested in environmental and air quality issues?
The first time I became deeply interested in environmental issues was during my university studies. During my master’s program at the University of Arizona, my passion for addressing these critical issues was ignited. Seeing firsthand the devastating consequences of climate change on vulnerable communities, particularly those in dryland ecosystems, awakened in me a sense of responsibility. This realization prompted me to become actively involved in advocating for environmental justice, air quality, and sustainable practices.
What role do you think moms and caregivers can play in addressing environmental challenges?
We play a crucial role in addressing environmental challenges by being the primary influencers on our children’s values and behaviors. Children often learn more from watching what we do than from what we say. By incorporating eco-friendly practices into our daily lives, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and making sustainable choices, we teach our children the importance of environmental responsibility. These practices not only create a healthier home environment but also instill in our children the values of conservation and stewardship, which can last a lifetime. When our kids see us making choices that benefit the environment, it sends a powerful message that everyone can make a positive impact. In this way, we are nurturing the next generation of environmentally conscious citizens who are well-equipped to address environmental challenges in the future.
How do you stay motivated to continue advocating for clean air and environmental protection?
My motivation to advocate for clean air and environmental protection is deeply rooted in my personal experiences and my role as a caregiver. I have a 20-month-old daughter, and like any parent, I care deeply about her future. Knowing that the quality of the air she breathes and the environment she grows up in will shape her health and well-being drives me to be a passionate advocate.
Every day, I’m reminded that the actions we take today will have a direct impact on the world she inherits. The thought of a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for her keeps me motivated and focused. It’s not just about the immediate benefits but also about creating a legacy of responsible environmental stewardship for the next generation.
Seeing the positive changes that advocacy and collective action can bring also reinforces my determination. Knowing that our efforts can lead to policies that protect the air we breathe and the environment we depend on is incredibly motivating. I am committed to being a voice for those who cannot advocate for themselves and to ensuring that my daughter and all children have the opportunity to grow up in a world with clean air and a thriving environment.
What do you think is the biggest challenge in raising awareness about air quality among the broader public?
The most significant challenge in raising awareness about air quality among the broader public is the invisible and often gradual nature of air pollution. Unlike more visible environmental issues, such as polluted water or deforestation, air pollution is often odorless and unseen. This makes it difficult for people to perceive the immediate health risks tied to poor air quality. Plus, the effects of air pollution can vary widely between locations and may not be immediately evident.
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