Charlotte, N.C. — On August 19, 2025, CleanAIRE NC will launch the CleanAIRE Academy. This interactive new learning tool is designed to help educate North Carolina residents on key environmental issues and equip them with the knowledge and resources needed to become effective advocates for healthier communities.
The CleanAIRE Academy addresses a critical need for accessible, expert-driven environmental education in North Carolina. Its specialized, self-paced courses are tailored for a diverse audience, including community leaders, professionals, students, and everyday people. Users will gain vital insights into air quality, environmental advocacy, public health impacts, and other high-priority subjects pertaining to environmental health. Designed for ultimate flexibility, the Academy is 100% online and self-paced, allowing users to learn anytime, anywhere, at a pace that fits their schedule.
“As someone passionate about environmental justice and community health, the CleanAIRE Academy greatly expanded my knowledge of air quality and advocacy,” said Naami Abbey, a student at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and an early user of the platform. “The self-paced courses made learning so much easier, deepening my understanding of air quality and how to turn concern into meaningful action for environmental justice. I highly recommend them.”
The landscape of environmental health in North Carolina has drastically shifted in recent months. Growing concerns about our state’s readiness to handle potential environmental emergencies, coupled with recent legal changes, underscore the urgent need for informed community engagement. The CleanAIRE Academy offers a reliable, expert-backed source of information, with content developed by seasoned professionals in air quality, health, policy, advocacy, and data science.
“The CleanAIRE Academy aims to transform understanding into action,” said Rafi Vaca, CleanAIRE NC Education Manager. “Air pollution is an invisible and often understated problem, yet its impact on public health is profound. We created this platform to demystify complex issues and inspire meaningful engagement. By offering a holistic approach, whether learners are interested in health, advocacy, science, or history, there’s something for everyone to contribute to a cleaner, healthier North Carolina.”
Those who are interested in the CleanAIRE Academy should visit cleanairenc.org/academy to request an account. You can also email any questions about the registration process to [email protected] or call 704-307-9528 to learn more.
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CleanAIRE NC is a statewide nonprofit organization advocating for the health of all North Carolinians by pursuing equitable and collaborative solutions that address climate change and air pollution. www.cleanAIREnc.org
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