New report confirms Canada's air continues to get cleaner

From Environment and Climate Change Canada

OTTAWA, March 20, 2018 /CNW/ - Following the publication of the 2018 Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory, Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Catherine McKenna, issued the following statement:

"Our government is committed to improving air quality in Canada and protecting the health of Canadians.

"Over the last few decades, federal, provincial, and territorial governments have worked together to take action to reduce air pollution from vehicles, power plants, and industries across Canada. This year's Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory confirms our collective efforts are working.

"Reducing harmful emissions is improving air quality in Canada and reducing health issues related to air pollution, such as asthma and cardiovascular diseases.  This is significant since the Government of Canada estimates there are 14 000 to 15 000 deaths in Canada each year due to air pollution from human activity. Reducing air pollution also helps the economy as Canadian families and businesses avoid health-related expenses and missed work every year. 

"The Government of Canada is working with its provincial and territorial partners to ensure Canada's air keeps getting cleaner. As part of that effort, we recently set stricter ambient air-quality standards for sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide to further improve air quality and protect the environment and health of Canadians. We have also put in place requirements that will reduce air pollution from Canadian industries.

"Canadians can all contribute to improving air quality and the environment through the choices they make each day. Try carpooling to work, riding your bike, or walking more. Let's keep working together. Everyone has a role to play."

Related Products

• Canada's air-quality overview

Associated Links

• 2018 Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory
• Canada's State of the Air Report

SOURCE Environment and Climate Change Canada