BC LUNG ASSOCIATION state CELEBRATING THE CLEAN AIR MONTH OF JUNE OVID-19’s economic consequences are apparent everywhere. Yet the impact of

1 C COVID-19 restrictions on air quality and health are of less obvious – as are the effects of poor air quality on COVID-19 transmission and illness severity. 2 Accordingly, we begin this year’s State of the Air the Report with key findings on the subject, which a panel of international experts presented at the 18th Annual Air Quality & Health Workshop. We also provide an update on small air sensors’

20 air reliability in measuring local air quality. Despite issues with certain models, Metro and Environment and Climate Change have recognized the potential of sensors in supplementing their air monitoring and forecasting efforts. In 2018, after the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) periodically under-reported health risks from smoke in our province, the AQHI-Plus was developed. We feature this novel tool that has been recently adopted as a complementary model to AQHI. Speaking of wildfire smoke, B.C.’s wildfire season is constantly setting new records in both duration and severity. As another wildfire season becomes imminent, we offer 10 best practices to limit our exposure, protect our health, and better prepare us this year. Another innovation we’re featuring is UBC’s SmellVan, a web-based app that collects odour information from user-submitted reports to paint a “smellscape” (smell landscape). The SmellVan app does not replace Metro Vancouver’s odour complaint process, but it offers information useful to the agency’s air quality work. We also examine Metro Vancouver’s efforts to curb traffic-related air – in particular, (i) the findings of a vehicle air emission study it undertook with various federal agencies, and (ii) data from its near-road air quality monitoring station on Clark Drive in Vancouver. This information is vital in developing air quality management plans and transportation policies. In closing, I’d like to thank once again all those who were involved in this year’s Report. And I wish everyone continued good health, safety, and faith during this pandemic.

Forget-Me-Not: CHRISTOPHER LAM Illustration by President and CEO, BC Lung Association Natalia Lopes Air Quality and COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 was first identified in David Rich from the University of late 2019 and quickly spread world- Rochester spoke about epidemiologi- wide in early 2020. It was declared cal studies of and respi- a global pandemic in March 2020. ratory infection. This presentation People infected with COVID-19 can covered the current understanding experience a range of symptoms and of links between air pollution and severity of illness. The risk of negative respiratory infections other than CO- outcomes-including death—is higher VID-19. Overall, evidence indicates with COVID-19 than with other com- relationships with illness occurrence mon respiratory viruses. The virus and severity. has the potential to overwhelm public health care systems. impacts of COVID-19 restrictions on Researchers are also The first COVID-19 vaccines became air quality and health. evaluating the effect available in December 2020 and a Researchers are also evaluating the of air pollution on mass worldwide vaccination roll out effect of air pollution on COVID-19 is ongoing. To limit the spread of the COVID-19 transmission transmission and illness severity. His- disease, interactions between people and illness severity. torically, evidence has demonstrated have been restricted in 2020 during that air pollution exposure increases the earlier stages of the pandemic. In Lisa Miyashita from Queen Mary Uni- susceptibility to, and severity of, re- some regions, these restrictions re- versity of London then gave an over- spiratory viral infections and pneumo- sulted in a substantial but temporary view of the mechanisms of air pollu- nia. People exposed to higher levels reduction in vehicle traffic. Research- tion-associated respiratory infection. of air pollution may be at greater risk ers worldwide have taken advantage She included a summary of a study of becoming ill with COVID-19. They of this phenomenon to study the from London showing evidence for a may also experience the most severe biological mechanism by which par- outcomes. ticulate matter pollution may facilitate The 18th annual BC Lung Air Qual- COVID-19 infection. Data from the contents ity and Health Workshop was held study showed that respiratory cells virtually on March 3, 2021 with the exposed to traffic-related particulate 1 Foreword theme “Air Quality and the COVID-19 matter pollution had increased levels Pandemic”. The goal of the 2021 of the ACE2 cell receptor COVID-19 2 Air Quality and the Pandemic Workshop was to explore the latest uses to infect cells. 3 Monitoring Air Quality with research on: Small Sensors Eric Lavigne from Health Canada • The impact of restrictions on air summarized recent studies on air 5 The Air Quality Health Index in B.C. quality and health. pollution and COVID-19 incidence (AQHI+) • The role of poor air quality in COV- and outcomes from around the ID-19 transmission and illness severity. 6 Pollution Levels: world, including studies in Canada. How Does B.C. Measure Up Kristin Aunan from the Centre for In- He described the existing epide- 8 Trends: Air Pollution Through ternational Climate and Environmen- miological evidence for air pollution the Years tal Research in Oslo (CICERO) started and COVID-19. He highlighted the the day off speaking about the effect limitations of existing research from a 9 Prepare for the Worst: of decreased traffic during COVID-19 policy perspective. He concluded that, Get Ready for Wildfire Smoke lockdowns on air quality across the while recent studies provide evidence 10 Mapping the Metro Vancouver globe. She described widespread for a link between air pollution and Smellscape reductions in nitrogen oxide (NO2) COVID-19 incidence and outcomes, 11 Reducing Exposure To Traffic and particulate matter (PM2.5) as well further careful research is needed. Emissions as slight increases in surface Paul Villeneuve from Carleton Uni- in some regions. Overall, the results 12 Legacy for Airway Health versity spoke about methodologi- provide evidence to support poli- cal considerations for studying an 14 Updates from Partner Agencies cies aimed at reducing traffic-related association between air pollution 16 Contact Information of Agencies emissions. 2 Monitoring Air Quality with Small Sensors and COVID-19. He described the Air quality monitoring stations oper- events such as . The pilot challenges in conducting epidemio- ated by federal, provincial or regional project is assessing the potential for logical studies of air pollution and governments use sophisticated instru- using small, low-cost sensor technol- COVID-19. He provided examples ments. These “reference monitors” ogy for a collaborative crowdsourc- of problematic designs and conclu- sions, and gave recommendations meet strict performance and operating ing approach in regions that do not for future studies. standards. The high quality data they have real-time particulate matter (PM) Shelly Miller produce is used for decisions about data. Evaluations have shown that of the Univer- regulations and policies and for re- the sensors reliably capture elevated sity of Colo- ports on the state of the air. Recently, PM concentrations during smoke rado Boulder there has been a proliferation of small, events. They are typically accurate to finished the low-cost air sensors that are easy to plus or minus one Air Quality Health day with a buy, set up, and operate. These small Index unit (AQHI-Plus formulation for presenta- tion on policy sensors are increasingly popular among biomass smoke). Sensor information and inter- residents and “citizen scientists” for can supplement information provided ventions for measuring local air quality. But, limited by ECCC’s air quality forecast models COVID-19, air quality, and health. certification and guidance for selection, and help people make informed health She provided a model of infection set up, and use can result in misleading decisions. risk, including the importance of collection or interpretation of data. aerosol transmission and the role A mapping tool, developed in collabo- of superspreading. She described Here’s an update on what’s happening ration with Dr. Peter Jackson at the the efficacy of a variety of interven- with small sensors: University of Northern BC, shows near tions and concluded with strategies real-time data from the sensors. It also for reducing COVID-19 risk. These Pilot Project to Make Particulate included recommendations regard- shows traditional air quality data from ing ventilation rates and the use of Matter (PM) Data Available the National Air Pollution Surveil- HEPA air cleaners for smaller rooms Environment and Climate Change lance Program network. Colour coded and germicidal UV light for larger concentration icons on the map will rooms. She also gave recommen- Canada (ECCC) is working on a pilot inform users at a glance where PM is dations for improving community project, in collaboration with partners, respiratory health after COVID-19, to enhance real-time air quality data elevated. By clicking on the icon, users including: and forecasting during high-impact can view the change in PM concentra- • mandating cooking exhaust hoods in all residences • electrifying homes to reduce reliance on biomass burning • addressing traffic related air pollution exposures. The workshop was attended by 396 participants; most of them join- ing from Canada but also including participants from the US, Europe, the Middle East, South Africa, and South America. The speakers’ slides are available online https:// bc.lung.ca/health-professionals/air- quality-health-workshop

Photo credits Charlotte May, Tim Mossholder from Pexels Image from: https://cyclone.unbc.ca/aqmap

(Cont’d on p.4) 3 (Cont’d from p.3)

tion over time and associated health messaging. The map- to be deployed quickly, and to be set up in a dense network ping tool has other advanced features such as the ability to to collect high-resolution spatial data at relatively low cost. overlay PM concentrations from ECCC’s FireWork forecast. Possible future uses that could be explored include: The pilot project will continue through the coming wild- • short-term air monitoring for community assessment fire season. There are plans to expand sensor use through studies; collaborations with partners, to test data integration with • air monitoring during emergency situations, such as dur- forecast tools and products, and get feedback from users. ing wildfire smoke events; More information can be obtained from Corinne.Schiller@ • identification of hot spots or to help understand the im- Canada.ca or [email protected]. pacts of industrial emissions; • educational and engagement tools for residents or students; Metro Vancouver’s Air Aware Project • air monitoring at sensitive receptors such as daycares The Air Aware project studied the strengths and limita- and health care facilities. tions of small, low-cost air quality monitoring sensors, how they might play a role in Metro Vancouver’s air monitoring network, why the public are using them, and how Metro Vancouver can support sensor users.

Early conversations with residents suggested that a major driver for their use was the link between air quality and health. As such, Air Aware was carried out in partnership with Vancouver Coastal Health. Volunteers measured out- door air quality at their homes with small sensors provided by Metro Vancouver and gave feedback about their experi- ence. The project found that small sensors can be easy to buy, set up, and operate, and can help users understand how activities affect local air quality. However, there is lim- ited guidance on small sensor performance and use, which can result in misleading air quality data.

The project found that small sensors can be easy to buy, set up, and operate, and can help users understand how activities affect local air quality.

To further support users, a website (www.metrovancouver. org/services/air-quality/action/air-aware) was created to help guide the public in the use and interpretation of small sensor data. The website also includes information on the differences between small air sensors and reference moni- tors, how to choose and use a small air sensor, and ex- amples of how other individuals or organizations are using small sensors.

Air quality agencies like Metro Vancouver and Environment and Climate Change Canada see potential in these sensors to enhance current air monitoring capabilities and continue to support small sensor initiatives. Although data quality issues remain, small sensors have advantages such as the ability Photo credits: Metro Vancouver

4 The Air Quality Health Index in BC (AQHI-Plus)

Most communities in B.C. are fortunate to enjoy relatively based solely on PM2.5 levels. The AQHI-Plus was devel- good air quality throughout most of the year. However, at oped based on respiratory health effects observed in B.C. times, communities may experience episodes of poor air during smoky conditions. quality that can be harmful to health. These episodes of poor air quality are often due to elevated fine particulate The BCCDC also provides matter (PM2.5) from residential wood burning in the winter, additional actions people can take to ozone formation on hot summer days, or the gases and fine particles that make up smoke from wildfires. Com- reduce exposure to wildfire smoke. munities in proximity to specific industrial sectors, such as In B.C., both the AQHI and the AQHI-Plus are calculated upstream oil and gas, metal smelting, and pulp and paper, hourly and the highest of the two values is reported. To may also experience episodes of poor air quality due to check the AQHI for communities across Canada, visit the elevated levels of sulphur dioxide (SO2). Government of Canada (https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/ The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a tool designed to pages/index_e.html). The Province of British Columbia inform Canadians about air quality conditions in their com- also reports current and forecast conditions, including an munity and how these conditions may affect their health. interactive air quality data map for all communities in BC This information allows people to take steps to reduce their with an air quality monitoring station (https://www.env. exposure to ambient air pollution and protect their health gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/data/aqhi-table.html). and the health of others in their care. One of the best ways to stay informed is to download the The AQHI reports air quality on a scale from 1 to 10+, the AQHI Canada app and set up notifications for alerts when higher the number, the higher the health risk. the AQHI in your community reaches the level at which you wish to be notified. People who are more sensitive to air

pollution may choose to be notified when the AQHI reaches 4, while the general population may choose to be notified when the AQHI reaches 7. Those who are considered more sensitive to air pollution include people with heart or lung The index scale is divided into four health-based risk cat- conditions, the elderly, children, and pregnant women. egories, each with information on actions to reduce ex- For more information about how to reduce your exposure to wildfire posure to air pollution. The current AQHI is updated each smoke, visit: hour and a forecast is provided for the following 72 hours. • The Government of Canada wildfire smoke web pages: https://www. canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health- The AQHI was developed based on the relative risks of a index/wildfire-smoke.html combination of common air pollutants that are known to • The BCCDC wildfire smoke online resources: http://www.bccdc.ca/health- info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke harm human health: NO2, O3 and PM2.5. With the increasing intensity and duration of wildfires in western Canada in recent years, it became apparent that the AQHI was at times not sufficiently responsive to wildfire smoke. In response, the B.C. Centre for Disease Con- trol, in collaboration with Minis- try of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, Health Canada, B.C. Ministry of Health and Metro Vancouver, developed a comple- mentary model, the AQHI-Plus,

5 Pollution Levels How Does B.C. Measure Up?

A record-breaking wildfire season1 in western United States caused severe impact on B.C.’s air quality levels in 2020. Long range transport of dense smoke from massive wildfires in California, Oregon, and Washington caused days of elevated

PM2.5 levels across most of the southern half of B.C. in September. As a result, the province issued 36 Smoky Skies Bulletins and Metro Vancouver issued nine smoke-related air quality advisories. More than half of all reporting stations

exceeded the 24-hour provincial air quality objective for PM2.5. In the following sections, air quality data collected in 2020 are summarized and compared against provincial or national objectives. Data from all available monitoring sites, except temporary mobile sites and industrial fenceline sites, are summarized in the Technical Appendix.

Fine Particulate Matter

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) refers to microscopic particles that are 2.5 micrometres or smaller in diameter. Major sources in B.C. include seasonal wildfires, residential wood combustion, prescribed burning, marine vessels, heavy-duty diesel vehicles, the pulp and paper sector, and the mining sector. Travelling deep into the lungs, inhaled PM2.5 can cause short term health effects such as irritation and inflammation and can aggravate health conditions such as and heart disease. There is strong evidence that prolonged exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of chronic disease, such as bronchitis and heart disease2.

In 2020, PM2.5 was monitored in 63 sites across the province for at least a portion of the year. Annual average concentrations ranged from 2.9 μg/m3 in Prince Rupert-Fairview to 12.4 ug/m3 in Grand Forks. A total of nine sites exceeded the provincial annual objective3 of 8 μg/m3 and 29 of 47 sites exceeded the provincial 24-hour objective4 of 25 μg/m3. Exceedances are significantly higher this year than in 2019 when only six and three of the sites exceeded the annual and 24-hour objectives, respectively. Long range transport of wildfire smoke from the western United States dominates PM2.5 exceedances in 2020.

1 See US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration site: https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/billions/events 2 Gan, W.Q.; Koehoorn, M.; Davies, H.W.; Demers, P.A.; Tamburic, L.;Brauer,M. 2011, “Long-Term Exposure to Traffic- Related Air Pollution and the Risk of Coronary Heart Disease Hospitalization and Mortality”, Environmental Health Perspectives,vol.119, no.4, pp. 501-507. 3 Based on the mean of daily average over one year 4 Based on the annual 98th percentile of daily average over three years 6 Sulphur Dioxide Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is a colourless, highly reactive gas with a pungent odour. Major sources of SO2 include the upstream oil and gas sector, metal smelting facilities, the pulp and paper sector and marine vessels. Short-term exposures to SO2 can aggravate asthma and increase respiratory symptoms.

In 2020, SO2 was monitored at 32 sites, excluding mobile and industrial fenceline sites. One-hour SO2 levels ranged from 1.5 ppb in to 206.8 ppb at Trail-Butler Park.5 The majority of monitoring sites recorded 1-hour levels less than 10 ppb. Trail-area sites were the only locations to observe exceedances of the provincial objective of 75 ppb and the national objective of 70 ppb.

Ground-level Ozone Ground-level ozone (O3) is a reactive gas that forms in the atmosphere from reactions involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile hydrocarbons in the pres- ence of sunlight. A major source of both NOx and hydrocarbons in B.C. is the transportation sector, including motor vehicles. Short-term exposures to ozone can cause breathing difficulties, an aggravation of asthma symptoms and other lung diseases, and premature death. There is growing evidence that long-term exposures may be associated with the development of respiratory effects, especially in the young and the elderly. In 2020, ozone was monitored at 46 monitoring sites. Eight-hour concentra- tions ranged from 36 ppb in Prince Rupert to 58 ppb in Chilliwack6. All sites achieved the national standard of 62 ppb7 but there were five days across ten sites when 62 ppb was exceeded. Metro Vancouver issued two ozone-related air quality advisories in 2020 due to hot, sunny days in July and August.

Nitrogen Dioxide Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) is a reddish-brown gas that is associated with emissions from high-temperature combustion. NO2 is mostly formed in the atmosphere from reactions involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) and ground- level ozone. The largest sources of NOx in B.C. include transportation and industry. Short-term exposures to NO2 are linked to respiratory illness, and there is growing evidence of effects from long-term exposure, including cardiovascular mortality, cancer, and reproductive effects.

In 2020, NO2 levels were monitored at 39 sites. One-hour concentrations ranged from 19 ppb in Langdale to 48 ppb in Fort St. John.8 All sites were well below the interim Provincial Air Quality Objectives for NO2 of 100 ppb and the national standard of 60 ppb.9 The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy recently released an intentions paper10 for a proposal to adopt more stringent objectives for NO2.

5 Based on the annual 99th percentile of daily one-hour maximum concentrations. The provincial objective of 75 ppb is based on similar statistical form as presented, but averaged over three years. Elevated SO2 levels were also recorded at Trail-Warfield; however, this data is under review and not included in this report. 6 Based on the annual 4th highest daily 8-hour maximum concentration over one year. 7 Achievement of the national standard is based on a similar statistical form as presented, averaged over three years. 8 Based on annual 98th percentile of daily one-hour maximum concentration. 9 The Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standard (CAAQS) of 60 ppb is based on a three-year average. 10 See: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air/air-quality-management/regulatory-framework/objectives- standards/objectivesforno2

7 TRENDS Air Pollution Through the Years

We look at trends in air pollution to assess the effectiveness of actions to improve air quality and to determine the need for additional work. The following figures provide 10-year trends in annual concentrations in the most heavily populated areas of the province, and the minimum and maximum concentrations across all B.C. sites.

Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) levels (shown as annual aver- NO2 levels (shown as annual average) have generally declined in age) have been increasingly influenced by wildfire smoke urban areas over the past decade, largely due to more stringent over the past decade. In 2014 and 2015, wildfire impacts on vehicle emission standards and other local actions. The trends PM2.5 levels were observed in parts of the province (e.g. Prince have started to plateau from 2010 onwards but aggressive George and Kelowna). In 2017 and 2018 especially, wildfire initiatives towards lower emission and zero emission vehicles are expected to improve air quality over the next decade. Reduced smoke was widespread and several sites, including Prince traffic in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in George, Kelowna, Chilliwack and Victoria, observed their high- significantly lower NO2 levels. est average concentrations over the past decade. The mild 2019 wildfire season brought PM2.5 below 2017 levels for most sites including Burnaby, Chilliwack, and Victoria. Transport of wildfire smoke from the western United States in 2020 caused an increase in PM2.5 levels.

SO2 levels (shown as annual average) in urban areas remain low – less than 3 ppb throughout the last decade. This reflects efforts to reduce sulphur content in motor vehicle and marine fuels and a reduction of emissions from the petroleum refining and cement industries. Ozone levels (shown as 4th highest daily 8-hour maxima) are also known to be influenced by wildfire smoke. Siberian wildfire smoke in 2012 and B.C. wildfires in 2015, 2017 and 2018 are believed to have contributed to higher ozone levels in these years.11,12

11 Teakles, A.D., So, R., Ainslie, B. et al. (2017) Impacts of the July 2012 Siberian fire plume on air quality in the Pacific Northwest. Atmos. Chem. Phys. 17, pp. 2593-2611. 12 Influence of 2015 and 2017 wildfire smoke on ozone levels in the Lower Fraser Valley are discussed further in: Lower Fraser Valley Air Zone Report (2015-2017) at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/ environment/air-land-water/air/reports/latest-air-zone-reports.

8 Prepare for the Worst: Get Ready for Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire seasons in B.C. keep setting Being prepared for smoke episodes before they occur new records, and it’s impossible to predict what 2021 will bring. Over the can reduce fear and uncertainty when air quality past five years we had prolonged peri- starts to deteriorate. ods when most of B.C. population was breathing unhealthy air due to smoke pollution. Exposure to wildfire smoke is with a management plan should consult they aren’t made for children. We’ve associated with a range of acute effects, with their doctor about adapting it for learned during COVID-19 that a well- particularly for those with respiratory smoky conditions. For example, people fitted multi-layer cloth mask can also do diseases. Evidence of longer-term health with asthma and COPD are particu- a pretty good job. People who work out- effects is also starting to emerge. larly sensitive to smoke, and those with doors should consult their occupational Outdoor air pollution from vehicles and diabetes may face additional challenges health and safety professionals before industry can be reduced though new managing their insulin. the seasons begins. laws and technologies, but that’s not Stock up on rescue medications. Use technology to your advantage. true for wildfire smoke. Furthermore, we There can be high demand for medi- Smartphone applications such as can’t stop breathing when it’s smoky 4 8 cations such as inhalers when it gets WeatherCAN and AQHI Canada can help and it’s not practical to relocate to less smoky, and highly sensitive people may you keep track of current conditions and smoky locations. Wildfire smoke is both be less mobile. It is best to stock up on air quality forecasts. The B.C. Govern- inevitable and largely unpredictable, so these medications before the season be- ment and Metro Vancouver both provide we need to become resilient to smoke by gins, so they are readily available when subscription services to get air quality changing our activities and behaviours to needed. Always travel with your rescue alerts by text or email. limit exposure and protect health. medications during wildfire season. Bookmark important information. Being prepared for smoke episodes Consider purchasing a portable air When there are fires burning around before they occur can reduce fear and 9 cleaner. Most people spend more B.C. you can start the day by checking uncertainty when air quality starts to de- 5 than 90% of their time inside. Portable the FireWork and BlueSky smoke fore- teriorate. Here are 10 steps to help you air cleaners with HEPA filters can sig- casts. These can help you to understand develop a plan for the wildfire smoke nificantly reduce indoor PM2.5 concen- where fires are currently burning, and season ahead. trations when sized and used properly. where the smoke is likely to travel. Understand the susceptibilities in There are many options on the market, Connect with others about your household. Some people are at 1 so some research is needed to find the smoke. Talk to your family and higher risk of experiencing health effects 10 best option for your space. A high-qual- community about your planning pro- from smoke, especially those who have ity furnace filter taped to a box fan can cess and help others to think through asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabe- also be effective in a small room. their own preparations. The more we tes, other chronic conditions or acute Get ready to shelter in place. Think get ready for smoke before the wildfire infections such as COVID-19. Pregnant about how to keep the air in your season starts, the more resilient we will women, infants, young children, older 6 home (or areas of your home, especially be when the smoke arrives. adults, and people who work or live out- bedrooms) cleaner by closing windows, doors are also more susceptible. It is impossible to predict when and running your forced air system on recir- where extreme wildfire smoke will oc- Identify others you want to support. culate, and using portable air cleaners. cur, but we know that our seasons are There may be people outside your 2 Beware of getting too hot, though – getting longer and more severe. If the household you want to help during a overheating is a bigger health risk than best offense is a good defense, we must smoke episode, particularly older adults breathing smoke for most people. head into every new wildfire season by in your family or community. Keep them Find good masks for time outdoors. preparing for the worst. It’s not optimistic in mind as you develop your plans. 7A well-fitted N95 respirator provides and it’s not pessimistic – it’s just realistic Review medical management plans. the best protection from wildfire smoke, based on trends over the past decade. 3Anyone who has a chronic disease but it can be hard to get a good fit and 9 Mapping the Metro Vancouver Smellscape

Odours from a wide range of sources can affect local air quality at different times and with different intensities.

Unlike air pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5)

and ground-level ozone (O3), there is no strong scientific evidence linking exposure to odours with specific health effects. Odours can definitely have an impact on how people feel and behave, and can affect their overall quality

of life. While single contaminants like PM2.5 and O3 can be measured, odours can be much more difficult to quantify because there can be hundreds of different compounds that can contribute to a particular odour. Qualitative descriptors such as those found in odour wheels (Figure 1) are gener- ally used to classify them. The SmellVan project is a UBC Figure 1: The odour description wheel used by Metro Vancouver in the formal odour complaint process. initiative to collect information about the odours people encounter and how they react. Anyone can use the web- based application (https://smell-vancouver.ca/) to submit have been collected since the project started (Figure 2), odour reports that describe the smell, the location and their and they describe many different types of odours across personal experience. Mapping these reports over space and the region (Figure 3). The UBC team has just begun to use time provides a “smellscape” that the research team can back-trajectory modeling, which will help to better under- use to study odours and their sources in the Metro Vancou- stand the odour sources, and will soon deploy the Portable ver region. The SmellVan app does not replace the formal Laboratory for Understanding human-Made Emissions Metro Vancouver odour complaint process, but it does pro- (PLUME) van to measure odour-causing compounds in the vide useful information for air quality work done by Metro air around some locations. Smell something fishy (or skunky Vancouver and other project partners. Hundreds of reports or…) in the Metro Vancouver area? If so, let us know!

Figure 2: Map of odour reports submitted through the SmellVan web Figure 3: Word cloud created from free text submitted to describe odours application. Colours indicate the offensiveness of the odour from green reported through the SmellVan web application. (mildly) to red (extremely).

10 Reducing Exposure To Traffic Emissions

Most of the time, B.C. residents enjoy sured emissions from your vehicle. Metro These trends are expected to continue, good, and steadily improving, air quality. Vancouver operates the station on Clark as newer and cleaner vehicles, including Even so, vehicle emissions are still a sig- Drive, a busy roadway and truck route in electric vehicles, replace existing cars and nificant source of air contaminants in our a densely populated neighbourhood. The trucks while use of public transit and ac- province, especially in densely populated station measures near-road traffic-related tive transportation increases. areas. While vehicle emissions have im- air pollutants that impact health. Nonetheless, the results of the near-road proved, Canada’s urban areas, population Air quality monitoring at the Clark Drive monitoring study show that traffic-related and vehicle use continue to grow. Around site in Vancouver showed that air con- air pollution near major roads continues to 10 million Canadians, or 32% of the total taminant concentrations are considerably be significant. Metro Vancouver is commit- population live within 250 metres of a higher near major roadways. Analysis ted to continue monitoring the near-road major roadway and the vehicle emissions revealed that these elevated concentra- environment at Clark Drive, to further from it. In Metro Vancouver, this percent- tions are a direct result of the volume and understand the impacts of traffic-related age is higher, where over one million air pollutants and track people – nearly half the population – live changes. Real-time within 250 metres of a major road. data from the Clark To better understand the impacts of Drive station can now traffic-related air pollution near major be viewed online at roads, Metro Vancouver collaborated with www.AirMap.ca. Environment and Climate Change Canada, Information from the the Ministry of the Environment, study will help deter- Conservation and Parks, and the Univer- mine public exposure sity of Toronto on a two-year monitoring to air contaminants and study from 2015 to 2017. This national will inform a national study included new monitoring in both near-road monitoring Vancouver and Toronto. strategy for urban areas Vehicle Emissions Have in Canada. Summa- Health Impacts ries of the Vancouver type of vehicles on Clark Drive, and diesel and Toronto study findings are available Vehicles emit air contaminants from the emissions in particular. at www.metrovancouver.org and www. combustion of fuel (mainly gasoline and Emissions from different types of vehicles socaar.ca. Key recommendations of the diesel), and brake and tire wear. This vary significantly. While most passenger Metro Vancouver study are to develop a traffic-related air pollution, while highest vehicles on the road are fuelled by gaso- program to reduce emissions and exposure at its source, can have impacts up to 250 line, the majority of large trucks (i.e., semi- to traffic-related air pollutants, and in- metres from a major road. Living or spend- trailer trucks) consume diesel fuel. crease education about the health impacts ing time near a major roadway is a known of traffic-related air pollution and trans- risk factor for a number of respiratory Large trucks make up only 6% of the portation decisions. Drawing from a range symptoms and cardiovascular problems. A total traffic measured at the Clark Drive of strategies, including land use policy, 2019 study estimated that air emissions monitoring station, but they contribute a infrastructure design, and transportation from transportation in Canada are as- disproportionate amount of vehicle-related management, these recommendations sociated with 1,400 deaths and 12 billion emissions. The elevated air contaminant will require support from multiple levels of (USD) dollars of health damages.13 concentrations at the Clark Drive site, government, from individual municipalities including nitrogen oxides, black carbon Diesel-exhaust particles are harmful vehicle- to the province. and ultrafine particles, are due more to the related air contaminants and a known car- large trucks travelling this road, rather than Metro Vancouver is developing an updated cinogen. Although diesel engines are more total volumes of traffic. There was a clear air quality management plan for the region, fuel-efficient than gasoline engines, they correlation between elevated air contami- the Clean Air Plan. A draft of the Plan iden- emit significantly more particulate matter. nant levels and the hours and days when tifies opportunities to accelerate emissions The Metro Vancouver Near-Road large trucks are typically on the roads. reductions in the region, including near ma- Air Quality Monitoring Study jor roadways, which will help to protect hu- Next Steps for Reducing Exposure man health and the environment, through You may have driven past the near-road Vehicle emissions have significantly incentives, education and regulation. air quality monitoring station at Clark Drive improved over the last several decades, and 11th Avenue in Vancouver without re- contributing to overall improvements in 13 Anenberg, S.; Miller, J.; Henze D.; Minjares, R.; and Achakul- alizing. In fact, the station may have mea- wisut, P., 2019. The global burden of transportation tailpipe emis- air quality in B.C. and Metro Vancouver. sions on air pollution- related mortality in 2010 and 2015.

11 Airway health through knowledge creation, dissemination and application

air quality because of wildfire smoke and things are expected to get worse in the future. Wildfire smoke is particularly con- cerning for people with lung/cardiovascular disease, pregnant women, children and infants, and the elderly. Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease In B.C., government and health agencies issue air quality (COPD) are the two most common chronic respira- advisories and public health messages during times of poor tory conditions worldwide. People with asthma air quality. We wanted to find out whether people heard or COPD have difficulty breathing, which can and understood these messages, so we worked with the BC limit their activities leading to reduced qual- Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC), researchers, patients, and ity of life, mental health concerns, and financial community groups to develop an online survey. The survey challenges. Researchers are always learning more about how was available between September and December 2020 and to prevent and treat these diseases but making the leap from received over 900 responses. research to effective change in patient care or reduced risk in We found from the survey that people in B.C. receive wildfire real life takes a long time and sometimes happens inefficiently smoke messages in different ways. The most common sources or not at all. There is a need to find ways to work better and of information were websites, followed by social media, radio, more closely with stakeholders within the communities of and television. Radio was identified as an important source researchers, governments, industry, health administration, and of information for people who identified as Indigenous, those of course with individuals, groups, or populations already with who work in the trades, as well as or at-risk of airways disease. Working those living in rural areas. We think together will help ask the right questions, this may be because of poor internet get the most helpful answers, and start and cellular connections in these using new knowledge effectively and as communities. Respondents with quickly as possible. lower levels of education stated that At Legacy for Airway Health (LAH), we messages should be simpler and want to improve quality of life for people easier to understand, while half of who have asthma or COPD and reduce the respondents did not know they the number of people who develop can receive automatic air quality these diseases in the future. To do this, alerts by email or text. Approximately we need to learn more about the links 90% of participants said they follow between what we breathe and airways public health advice during times of disease. We can use models to better poor air quality. use the information we already have. Governments, health agencies, and We can learn from the experiences of community organizations can use patients and the public to understand these findings to improve how and how culture, social life, and where people what they communicate to protect live affect those experiences. We need British Columbians during future to continue to seek promising new ways wildfire smoke events. Simplified to improve screening, prevention, and messaging, and expanding the reach treatment based on individual needs. of alerts will help reduce exposure to To achieve these goals, LAH works closely with stakehold- wildfire smoke and its negative health effects. ers to find effective and cost-effective solutions that help prevent and treat airway disease. We help build partnerships To sign up for automatic air quality advisory alerts via email or text visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/ that allow us to perform high quality research that connects air/air-quality/air-advisories/air-quality-subscription-service) academic disciplines to generate new evidence and transform it into action. Evaluation of public advisories during wildfires Contact: LEGACY FOR AIRWAY HEALTH, www.legacyairwayhealth.ca Diamond Health Care Centre, The Lung Centre, Rm 7267 in B.C. 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC., Canada, V5Z 1M9 (604)-875-4111 x 23137, [email protected] Wildfires in B.C. have become more frequent and more severe during the past 10 years. People in B.C. have experienced poor Photo credits Landon Parenteau from Unsplash 12 UPDATES From Partner Agencies

Clean Air Plan and Climate oped on a sector basis, such as buildings, Proposed Expansion of Non-Road 2050 Roadmaps transportation, industry, and others. Diesel Engine Bylaw Metro Vancouver is seeking public feed- For more, visit www.metrovancouver.org Metro Vancouver is proposing amend- back on a new draft Clean Air Plan — and search ‘Clean Air Plan’ or ‘Climate ments to a regional bylaw for non-road our latest air quality and greenhouse gas 2050’, to see how these plans explore diesel engines, to reduce harmful emis- management plan for the region. Actions the most effective actions for improv- sions from these engines. Proposed in the plan will reduce air contaminant ing air quality, reducing greenhouse gas amendments to the bylaw would expand emissions and impacts, including green- emissions, and preparing our communi- the scope of the bylaw to further reduce house gases, over the next 10 years. In ties for a changing climate. diesel particulate matter emissions doing so, it supports the 30-year com- Residential Wood and also address harmful emissions of mitment of a carbon neutral region by Burning Bylaw nitrogen oxides produced by all tiers of 2050 and ensures we maintain the good non-road diesel engines. The current Residential wood air quality we generally experience. bylaw has reduced emissions from older smoke is the most Tier 0 and Tier 1 engines. The draft Clean Air Plan was developed significant source with input from stakeholders who par- of fine particulate Proposed Updates to Air Quality ticipated in a first phase of engagement matter emissions in Management Fees in 2020. It includes 132 the region. Particulate Metro Vancouver is reviewing its air recommendations in matter, which is also in the wildfire smoke quality fees bylaw to better address air key areas to reduce that has become pervasive in recent sum- contaminant emissions from permitted emissions from the mers, can have negative health effects. and regulated industries. As part of the largest sources in In March 2020, a new bylaw was adopt- review, Metro Vancouver engaged with this region: build- ed to reduce emissions from residential interested parties to seek feedback on ings, transportation, indoor wood burning in Metro Vancou- the proposed changes. The changes and industrial sources. ver. The new bylaw requires those with proposed are designed to achieve health The draft plan proposes three targets indoor wood burning appliances, such and environmental benefits associated for 2030: as fireplaces and wood stoves, to use with the reduction of harmful emissions and improved air quality, ensure that Reduce regional greenhouse gas best burning practices when operat- fees promote continuous improvement, 1 emissions by 45% from 2010 levels ing their appliance. The bylaw includes measures that will be phased in over and recover the costs of monitoring and Ensure ambient air quality in the the coming years. Warm season restric- enforcement while maintaining Metro region meets or is better than the 2 tions were introduced this year and will Vancouver’s commitment to discharger- health-based standards set by Metro Van- be in effect from May 15 to September pay, equity, and fairness principles. couver, the BC and federal governments 15 every year. During this period, use of For additional updates on consultation Increase the amount of time that residential indoor wood-burning appli- activities, visit www.metrovancouver. 3visual air quality is classified as ances will not be permitted unless they org/services/air-quality/engagement. excellent are the sole source of heat in a Caring for the Air The Clean Air Plan is also coordinated residence, they are located Metro Vancouver’s annual Caring with Metro Vancouver’s Climate 2050 in an off-grid home outside for the Air Report has more air Roadmaps, which lay out Metro Vancou- the Urban Containment quality and climate change sto- ver’s long-term strategies and actions to Boundary, or there is an ries at www.metrovancouver.org/ achieve a carbon neutral and resilient re- emergency. services/air-quality/about/caring- gion by 2050. Roadmaps are being devel- for-the-air. Photo credits Daniel Moqvist, Juan Gomez, and Atilla Bingol from Unsplash

(Cont’d on p.14) 13 (Cont’d from p.13)

regional stakeholders were invited to the management of the Lower Fraser provide comments and this engagement Valley Air Quality Monitoring Network. has elicited valuable feedback and The existing air quality stations provide suggestions which will go into the final both regions with high quality data document. The FVRD AQMP represents from across our shared airshed. The our long-standing commitment to the FVRD hosts 6 stations. In 2020, the improvement of regional air quality. FVRD and Metro Vancouver updated It identifies the strategic directions an agreement for the operation and FVRD Air Quality and practical mechanisms of the maintenance related to the FVRD Management Plan management for our part portion of the network. of the airshed. The focus This collaboration will help The Fraser Valley Regional District is on reducing emissions, preserve the integrity of the (FVRD) produced its Quality changing behaviours, and network, ensure compliance Management Plan (AQMP) in 1998. promoting sustainability, so to the best standards and Since then, new comprehensive air our residents and visitors practices, and clarify roles and quality data have become available, can enjoy clean air, beautiful responsibilities in maintaining as has new research on air pollution vistas, and healthy living. the FVRD portion of the effects, signalling the need to revise network. The continuation of the the AQMP. The updated FVRD Air LFV Air Quality Monitoring Station Network in the FVRD arrangement between the two regional Quality Management Plan is in its districts will contribute to achievement final stage before being finalized in The FVRD continues to work of our goals for clean air in the region. summer of 2021. During its preparation, collaboratively with Metro Vancouver on

Council to complete a wood smoke information resource online portal and The Government of Canada estimates ventilation to reduce the risk of aerosol an online course on residential wood that 15,300 premature deaths per year transmission of COVID-19 in homes and smoke (https://www.fraserbasin.bc.ca/ in Canada can be linked to air pollution in long term care residences (https:// woodsmoke_info.html). These resources from fine particulate matter, nitrogen www.canada.ca/en/public-health/servic- were designed to inform British Colum- dioxide and ozone, as outlined in Health es/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-in- bians about the impacts of residential Impacts of Air Pollution in Canada – Es- fection/guidance-documents/guide-ltch- woodstoves to air quality and health, timates of Premature Deaths and Nonfa- ventilation-covid-19-pandemic.html, and to support those who rely on wood- tal outcomes - 2021 Report (https:// https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/ stoves to help improve air quality in www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/ser- services/diseases/2019-novel-corona- their community through better burning vices/publications/healthy-living/2021- virus-infection/guidance-documents/ practices. health-effects-indoor-air-pollution. guide-home-ventilation-covid-19-pan- Science Assessments html). The total economic valuation of demic.html). Projects were initiated A health assessment of the impact of the health impacts attributable to air that investigated the potential impact traffic related air pollution on asthma al- pollution in Canada is $120B per year. of short and long-term air pollution lergy and lung function was published in Health Canada research and science exposure on COVID-19 incidence. Dr. June 2020. Residential assessments are drivers for regulatory David Stieb and collaborators published Guidelines have been published for acro- and non-regulatory measures to reduce two peer-reviewed papers and other lein and carbon dioxide and a guidance emissions of air pollution across the research is continuing. document was published on Cleaner Air country, and serve as the basis for risk Wood Smoke Spaces during Wildfire Smoke Events mitigation actions to reduce exposure. Information (https://www.canada.ca/en/health-can- Pandemic Response Health Canada ada/services/publications/healthy-living/ Health Canada provided support to recently pro- guidance-cleaner-air-spaces-during- the Public Health Agency of Canada in vided support to wildfire-smoke-events.html). the development of guidance for using the Fraser Basin (Cont’d on p.15) 14 (Cont’d from p.13 - Updates: From Partner Agencies)

information, see: https://www.comox- valleyrd.ca/projects-initiatives/past-cur- rent-projects/airshed-roundtable-project Since establishment in 2019, the Clean Air Task Force (CATF) at the Village of Valemount has conducted a residential Regulatory Updates the total number of replacements under home heating and air quality survey the program to approximately 9,500. and implemented an anti-idling by- The Ministry of Environment and Approximately 60% of the replacements law in 2020. It is currently working on Climate Change Strategy (ENV) in 2020 were non-wood burning op- a draft by-law to reduce residential released an intentions paper to seek tions, while the balance were certified woodsmoke. comment and feedback on a proposal wood-burning appliances. ENV and the Ministry of Energy, Mines, to adopt new Provincial Air Quality and Low Carbon Innovation (EMLI) have Objectives for Nitrogen Dioxide. ENV has recently commis- partnered to support the Village of If the proposal is adopted, it sioned an independent Valemount to conduct a data review of strengthens the objectives for third-party evaluation ambient air quality during dust episodes nitrogen dioxide from 100 parts of the BC Wood Stove from the Kinbasket Reservoir. The goal per billion (ppb) to 60 ppb for Exchange Program is to determine the levels of respirable the 1-hour objective and 32 ppb (WSEP). The purpose particulate matter (PM10 or PM2.5) from to 17 ppb for the annual objective. of the work was to as- dust events, particularly during periods For more information on the proposal, sess the effectiveness of the with low reservoir water levels. The see: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/ program in reducing pollution from old data review is scheduled to be com- content/environment/air-land-water/ appliances and educating the public on pleted by the summer of 2021. air/air-quality-management/regulatory- clean wood-burning practices, and to framework/objectives-standards/ gather learnings from participants in the AQHI Update program, stakeholders, and programs objectivesforno2 . The AQHI is a elsewhere that can be used to improve Provincial Wood Stove tool developed the program. Some key recommenda- Exchange Program by Canadian tions include changes on the overall health research- In 2020 the program assisted in the rebate scheme targeting reducing PM2.5 ers to communi- replacement of 500 appliances, bringing emission in red zone communities, cate short-term accessibility of the program for low- health risks (Cont’d from p.14 Health Canada) income wood burners, and reflection to the public. on Indigenous people’s participation in Originally based on data from the larg- Research WSEP, etc. The WSEP is supported by est Canadian cities, the AQHI has been the ENV and British Columbia Lung As- Health Canada shown to periodically under-report sociation. In 2021-2022 ENV is provid- scientists contin- health risks during smoky conditions. In ing a one-time funding boost to support ued collaborative 2018, ENV supported work by the BC additional exchanges and to implement research into the Centre for Disease Control to develop an the recommendations from the evalua- sources, nature adjustment to the AQHI (the so-called tion. More information on the Provincial “AQHI-Plus”) to better characterize and mechanisms Wood Stove Exchange Program can be health risks due to wildfire smoke. The of air pollu- found at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/ AQHI-Plus pilot was successfully run tion health damage and contributed to content/environment/air-land-water/air/ during the wildfire season of 2018 and more than forty research papers dur- air-pollution/smoke-burning/exchange. has been extended throughout the year ing the year. These included studies of Airshed Management Activities following further evaluation as a health the health impacts of wildfire smoke, In the summer of 2020, the Comox Val- risk indicator during the cool season. and the analysis of the contribution of ley Regional District (CVRD) launched Peer-reviewed scientific health studies the various components of particulate an airshed roundtable called Comox in 2019-2020 validated the suitability matter to cardiovascular outcomes. The Valley Airshed Roundtable Project. It of AQHI-Plus as indicator of health risk impacts of industrial sources of air pol- aims to develop and implement a Re- in B.C. In March 2021, ENV officially lution on childhood asthma onset and gional Airshed Protection Strategy for ended the pilot status of AQHI-Plus and on inflammatory markers were reported. the Comox Valley through collaborative adopted its use as the default method Cohort studies were also used to inves- initiatives represented by local stake- when reporting AQHI. tigate the associations between expo- holders and the general public. For more sure to air pollution and asthma, cancer, Photo credits Jordan Brierley, Austin J, Beazy and National and brain tumors. Cancer Institute from Unsplash 15 Contact Information of Agencies

BRITISH COLUMBIA METRO VANCOUVER FRASER HEALTH AUTHORITY LUNG ASSOCIATION www.metrovancouver.org www.fraserhealth.ca www.bc.lung.ca 4730 Kingsway Suite 400, Central City Tower 2675 Oak St. Burnaby, B.C. V5H 0C6 13450 – 102nd Ave Vancouver, B.C. V6H 2K2 (604) 432-6200 Surrey, B.C. V3T 0H1 (604) 731-5864 or toll-free at (604) 587-4600 or 1-800-665-5864 (in B.C. but outside FRASER VALLEY REGIONAL 1-877- 935-5699 the Lower Mainland) DISTRICT www.fvrd.ca INTERIOR HEALTH AUTHORITY BC MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT 45950 Cheam Ave. www.interiorhealth.ca AND CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGY Chilliwack, B.C. V2P 1N6 220 – 1815 Kirschner Rd. www.gov.bc.ca/bcairquality (604) 702-5000 Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 4N7 Environmental Standards Branch 1-800-528-0661 (250) 862-4200 525 Superior Street Victoria, B.C. V8W 9M1 BC MINISTRY OF HEALTH FIRST NATIONS HEALTH (250) 387-9537 http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/ AUTHORITY governments/organizational-structure/ www.fnha.ca HEALTH CANADA ministries-organizations/ministries/ 501-100 Park Royal South ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH health Coast Salish Territory PROGRAM-BC REGION Health Protection Branch West Vancouver, B.C. V7T 1A2 www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/air/ 1515 Blanshard Street, RBB 4-2 (250) 862-4200 index-eng.php Victoria, B.C. V8W 3C8 Federal Building Sinclair Centre (250) 952-1911 LEGACY FOR AIRWAY HEALTH 420-757 Hastings St. W www.legacyairwayhealth.ca Vancouver, B.C. V6C 1A1 NORTHERN HEALTH AUTHORITY Diamond Health Care Centre (604) 666 – 2083 www.northernhealth.ca The Lung Centre, Rm 7267 Suite 600, 299 Victoria St. 2775 Laurel Street, Vancouver, BC. BC CENTRE FOR DISEASE Prince George, B.C. V2L 5B8 Canada, V5Z 1M9 CONTROL (250) 565-2649 (604)-875-4111 x 23137 www.bccdc.ca 655 West 12th Ave ISLAND HEALTH AUTHORITY We welcome your feedback! Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4R4 www.viha.ca Please send correspondence to: (604) 707-2400 1952 Bay Street Dr. Menn Biagtan, [email protected] Victoria, B.C. V8R 1J8 (604) 731-5864 ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE (250) 370- 8699 B.C. Lung Association, 2675 Oak CHANGE CANADA Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 2K2 www.ec.gc.ca VANCOUVER COASTAL 401 Burrard Street HEALTH AUTHORITY Working Group: Vancouver, B.C. V6C 3S5 www.vch.ca Menn Biagtan Joshi Phalgun Michael Brauer Marina Richter (604) 664-9100 601 West Broadway, 11th Floor, Chris Carlsten Jerome Robles Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4C2 Sarah Henderson Meghan Roushorne (604) 736-2033 or Derek Jennejohn 1-866-884-0888 16