Air Pollution in Canada

Circle of Wellness
Air Pollution in Canada
Physical — Environment — Outdoors

Air pollution is no longer a remote problem. We can no longer say that it will not affect us or our loved ones. A quick look around will tell us that changes have already started. We must change our habits in order to create a safe future for our generation, and for generations to come.

What causes air pollution?

Air pollution is caused by the use of fossil fuels to provide energy. The burning of fossil fuels releases pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, ozone, sulphur dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and other particles.

The problems associated with these greenhouse gases are twofold.

1. They contribute to climate change

2. They pollute the air we breath.

Most experts agree that greenhouse gases have already begun to cause global warming, and they warn of future devastation if we do not stop burning fossil fuels. Furthermore, air pollution has already caused illness and death in tens of thousands of Canadians.

Air Pollution and Illness

It has been estimated that eight percent of Canada’s non-accidental deaths are the result of air pollution and smog. That’s sixteen thousand victims of air pollution each year! Additionally, tens of thousands more suffer the ill effects of air pollution on their health.

The chemicals in smog can bring on asthma attacks, damage the lungs, and aggravate heart and lung conditions. They are also known to cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea. In children, air pollution can increase the chance of developing a respiratory illness. Children and seniors are the most at risk of suffering due to pollution.

Unfortunately, smog is expected to increase as our climate changes due to the greenhouse effect.

Air Pollution and Climate Change

Air pollution is a cause of Global warming, an increase in the overall temperature of our planet. Such unnatural shifts will alter our environment, possibly leading to devastation throughout the planet. Extreme weather, such as tornados and hurricanes, results from the unnatural temperatures created by greenhouse gases. As our climate continues to change, these events will happen more frequently. An increase in forest fires, the melting of polar ice caps, flooding, and other extreme weather phenomena, have already been documented.

How to Reduce Air Pollution

The way to reduce pollution is to prevent the release of greenhouse gases, by reducing the use of fossil fuels.

Canada’s Role

Per capita, Canada is the third highest producer of greenhouse gases in the world. Despite signing on to the Kyoto Protocol, by 2004, Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions have risen by 27% from 1990 levels. Our goal is to reduce emissions to six percent below 1990 levels by 2012. Environment Canada blames oil and gas exports for the rise.

What you can do

Every individual has an impact on the environment. Will you tread harshly or lightly? In the home

• Switch to compact florescent light bulbs, which are 75% more efficient than standard incandescent bulbs.

• To reduce your home’s heating and electricity use, participate in the government’s EcoENERGY Retrofit programme, which begins in April, 2007.

• When purchasing appliances, ensure that they are energy efficient.

• Be sure that your windows and doors are well-caulked to prevent air leakage, lowering your heating and cooling bills.

Diet

• Try enjoying meat-free meals at least once a week.

• Whenever possible, shop at a farmer’s market. You probably have one in your city or town! If you can’t find one, try to purchase produce that is locally grown. This helps to eliminate the pollution that is caused by importing foods over long distances.

Transportation

• Try walking, biking, using public transit, or carpooling when going to work or travelling around town.

• The Canadian government provides Auto Smart ratings to which you can refer when deciding what new car to purchase. Aim for lighter cars, which save dramatically on fuel.

• Avoid air travel whenever possible. Even travelling by car is more energy efficient than flying..

Stop Pesticide use

• Pesticides are substances designed to kill. They release chemicals that, especially during smoggy summer weather, can contribute to air pollution. Whenever possible, refrain from using them..

Getting involved

• Contact municipal, provincial, and federal governments, and ask them to implement strategies that will reduce greenhouse gases. For instance, ask for better public transit, and less urban sprawl.