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2 Foreword 3 Emerging Issues: Air and COVID-19 – What Does it All Mean? 4 Emerging Issues: Cannabis – Health and Air Quality Impacts 5 Environmental Justice of Air Quality in the Era of Citizen Science: Highlights from the 2020 Air Quality and Health Workshop 7 Natalie Suzuki: 2020 Clean Air Champion 8 Pollution Levels: How Does B.C. Measure Up 10 Trends: Through the Years 12 Updates from Partner Agencies 16 Contact Information of Agencies

Bowen Island, Vancouver, , Photo by Victor Sauca on Unsplash First of all, I’d like to say thank you to the entire staff of the State of the Air Report. It is a testament to their dedication and diligence that we’ve been able to publish this year’s Report in a timely fashion, despite the many challenges of working remotely during the pandemic.

Air pollution reduces our immune response, increasing both our risk for infection and sensitivity to COVID-19. Accordingly, we begin this Report by examining how air pollutants affect our respiratory system – and what we can do to minimize them.

Large-scale cannabis production releases Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air that, if not collected and treated properly, cause adverse effects. We explore the air quality and human health impacts of these emissions, along with the measures government agencies are taking to manage them. Foreword Environmental justice is a growing movement centred on the equitable distribution of environmental benefits and burdens. It recognizes that distinct segments of the population, especially indigenous communities, have historically faced disproportionate pollution exposures – and continue to do so.

Therefore, the movement seeks to ensure all people are protected equally under environmental laws, and that marginalized communities have a say in natural resource development decisions.

This year’s Air Quality & Health Workshop had for its theme, “Environmental Justice of Air Quality in the Era of Citizen Science.” Among the many presentations: How the public is using low-cost sensors to collect air quality data in communities underserved by regulatory monitors.

This is especially notable as people in these communities are often unduly exposed to environmental hazards (including air pollution), and more vulnerable due to systemic inequities, increasing rates of underlying health conditions (like heart and lung disease).

It gives us great pleasure to recognize Natalie Suzuki as this year’s Clean Air Champion. Natalie will always be remembered for helping develop Provincial Air Quality Objectives and national Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine

particulate matter (PM2.5).

Before retiring last April, Natalie was involved in many air quality projects – among them, our own State of the Air Report and Air Quality & Health Workshop. We at the BC Lung Association will miss Natalie’s passion, expertise, and friendship – and wish her well in retirement!

Until the next edition of our Report, I wish everyone good health, safety, and hope in these uncertain times.

CHRISTOPHER LAM President and CEO, BC Lung Association

2 EMERGING ISSUES: Air Pollution and COVID-19 What does it all mean? The response to COVID-19 has led to a dramatic decrease ‘gobbling up’ and digesting bacteria and viruses. However, in economic activity and sharp declines in traffic. These in the presence of air pollution – and fine particles espe- actions have also led to some improvements in air qual- cially – macrophages attempt to also fight the air pollution ity – especially the vehicle traffic pollutant nitrogen dioxide but are quickly overwhelmed and unable to address the – but decreases have been modest and variable. Whether infection. Air pollution may also make it easier for a virus these improvements in air quality will lead to fewer im- to attach to receptors on cells, increasing the likelihood of pacts on heart and lung disease is unclear and will require an infection taking hold once exposure occurs. In short, detailed study over time, given the many complexities air pollution in the midst of a respiratory disease of these relationships during an unprecedented pandemic is a worrying combination. pandemic. If more people who are infected develop From a public health perspective, a more severe infections - those that require immediate and important consideration hospitalization – then this works is the interaction between air pollution against all of the other measures and COVID-19 disease severity. Long put in place to ‘flatten the curve.’ before the pandemic began, it was Therefore, it is of paramount impor- understood that air pollution worsened tance to do all that we can, especially respiratory infections. For example, in during the pandemic, to reduce air 2017 air pollution in Canada was esti- pollution and exposure to air pollut- mated to be responsible for roughly 5% of ants throughout British Columbia. For this the 9000 deaths from pneumonia. In the SARS-1 reason, one early action taken in March was outbreak in 2003, areas with higher air pollution had dou- to prohibit open burning throughout most populated ble the number of deaths. Air pollution doesn’t cause these areas of the province. Moving into summer, implementing infections nor does it play a major role in transmission, complete fire bans (campfires, outdoor fire pits) would be although it can increase coughing which may help spread prudent, while health authorities and municipalities need the virus. More importantly, air pollution affects sensitiv- to proactively prepare for potential wildfire smoke events, ity to COVID-19 by degrading our immune response. In including developing plans for COVID-safe clean air shel- our nose, throat and upper airways, mucus traps inhaled ters. Further, individuals potentially sensitive to smoke – those with pre-existing heart and lung disease, type 2 dia- Air pollution affects sensitivity betes and pregnant women – should work with health care to COVID-19 by degrading our providers to ensure their conditions are well-managed and consider acquiring room air cleaners. Aggressive action immune response. now to retire older high emission woodburning appliances bacterial and viral particles. Specialized cells lining the and to prepare to implement bans on use of fireplaces and respiratory tract then sweep the mucus upward until it is woodstoves that are not primary heat sources will help re- swallowed or blown into a tissue. Air pollution can degrade duce this major source of air pollution when colder temper- these cells and remove their sweeping properties, thus al- atures arrive in fall and winter along with likely additional lowing infections to take hold and spread. For example, ear waves of COVID-19 infections. Besides their important infections – a common childhood infection – begin as respi- role in the response to COVID-19, actions to ratory infections but can then spread to the middle ear. Air improve air quality have the added ben- pollution increases the likelihood of this progression. In the efits of reducing the annual toll of 1,600 deep lung, where infections can be especially dangerous, deaths and costs of $11.5-billion in British immune cells called macrophages provide protection by Columbia from heart and lung disease. 3 EMERGING ISSUES: Cannabis Health and Air Quality Impacts Cannabis refers to a group of products scale production facilities, which have derived from the Cannabis sativa or the potential to negatively Cannabis indica plant, used for both impact local air quality if therapeutic and psychoactive effects. air contaminants are not THC is the main psychoactive ingredi- collected and treated. ent of the cannabis plant, responsible There are several for the intoxicating effects, including air quality related the “high”. It can lead to addiction and issues associated is responsible for most of the short- with large-scale term and long-term health effects. cannabis production: Short-term health effects • Cannabis plants emit volatile organic of THC containing cannabis compounds (VOC), which have the products include: potential to contribute to formation • feeling high and sense of well being of ground level ozone and particulate • heightened senses (smell, taste, sight matter. and sound) • VOC emitted by cannabis plants are Potential impacts to local air quality • impaired thinking, problem solving, odorous and can cause problems for from large-scale production facilities poor memory or concentration neighbours. can be managed through appropriate • To manage odours, some cannabis design, construction, and operation. Regular use of THC containing production facilities use odour-mask- Indoor cultivation and processing in cannabis products can lead to ing agents, which also contain VOC. a facility with adequate air treatment long-term health effects such as: • The power production equipment can significantly reduce air emis- • Lung damage from smoking can- required for indoor production of sions, which also eliminates the need nabis, which can lead to breathing cannabis may generate both nitro- for odour-masking agents. Metro problems and frequent lung infection. gen dioxide and particulate matter, Vancouver is one air quality agency • Mental health issues, including addic- depending on the fuel used. that has been exploring options for tion and increased risk of developing or managing emissions from cannabis worsening anxiety and depression. production and processing operations • Increased heart rate up to 3 hours to prevent impacts from emissions. after smoking cannabis, which could Under the Good Production Practices lead to a heart attack. requirements of the Cannabis Regu- • Impaired brain development in youth lations, federally licensed producers resulting in potential deficits in think- must have sufficient air filtration to ing, learning, and memory and in- prevent the escape of odours. Before creased risk of developing dependence issuing a licence, Health Canada’s disorders, anxiety and depression. Licensing team confirms that the ap- Commercial cannabis production has plicant has systems in place to help grown rapidly in BC since the legal- ensure there is sufficient air filtration ization of recreational cannabis use in areas where cannabis is present. in Canada in October 2018. In some Health Canada then inspects licence parts of the province, this includes the holders on a regular basis. development of a number of large-

4 Environmental Justice of Air Quality in the Era of Citizen Science Highlights from the 2020 Air Quality and Health Workshop

Marginalized communities are often communities in environmental policy Lewis, a member of Squamish Nation disproportionately exposed to envi- and natural resource development Council and Chair of the SFU Board ronmental hazards, including ambi- decisions. of Governors, opened the day with ent air pollution, in comparison with Availability of reliable air quality data an acknowledgement of the shared the overall population. At the same is a key factor in managing air quality traditional territories of the Coast time, people living in these communi- to protect human health and the envi- Salish peoples. He also spoke about ties may also be more vulnerable to ronment. While air quality monitoring the perspectives of local Indigenous the health effects associated with has been traditionally carried out by communities on the issues of environ- exposure to air pollution. This may be government, academia, and industry, mental justice and air quality. related to systemic inequities result- the recent introduction of low cost air Julian Marshall, a professor from Uni- ing in increased stress, poor nutritional quality sensors has made it possible versity of Washington, delivered the status and higher rates of underlying for the public to collect their own air keynote presentation “environmental health conditions (such as heart and quality data. In response to environ- justice – the big picture”. He spoke lung disease). mental justice issues, many citizen of existing disparities in the US and The concept of Environmental Justice science projects have taken advan- approaches for reducing disparity. (EJ) began in the US over four decades tage of these low cost sensors to Amanda Giang is an assistant profes- ago in response to the siting of haz- provide local air quality data in areas sor in the Institute for Resources, En- ardous waste sites in minority commu- that are underserved by regulatory vironment, and Sustainability and the nities. Since then, environmental jus- monitors. Government and academ- Department of Mechanical Engineering tice has evolved into both a movement ics have also developed an interest in at UBC Dr. Giang gave an overview of and an area of study, with a focus on low cost sensors for providing greater current EJ issues in Canada. She high- equitable distribution of environmental data coverage and studying specific lighted some key knowledge gaps and benefits and burdens. The concept issues. described tools and approaches that of Environmental Justice includes not The 17th annual BC Lung Air Quality could be used to better characterize EJ only equal protection for all people and Health Workshop was held on and air quality in Canada. under environmental laws, regula- February 11, 2020 with the theme tions, and policies, but also significant “Environmental Justice of Air Quality involvement of potentially impacted in the Era of Citizen Science”. Chris

Environmental justice began in the US over four decades ago in response to the siting of hazardous waste sites in minority communities.

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Anjum Hajat, professor at University traditional territory and the actions Insitute of Water and Atmospheric of California, spoke about the role of that have been taken to address these Research in New Zealand then pro- social and environmental stressors on issues. Annita McPhee, a former vided an overview of a citizen sci- health outcomes. She described how three-term President of the Tahltan ence project in New Zealand involv- stress and air pollution affect similar Central Council, wrapped up the ing school children. As part of this biological systems and highlighted morning with an indigenous perspec- project, the students built their own

the need for interventions to address tive on environmental justice in B.C. PM2.5 sensors and installed them in both air pollution and social policy. She highlighted the importance of their homes to complement a net- respectful engagement of indigenous work of outdoor sensors, with a goal communities and striking a balance of educating the community about between the economy and the needs residential wood smoke. of local Indigenous populations. Running-Grass, director of Three The focus of the afternoon presenta- Circles Center, closed the day speak- tions was on low cost sensors and ing about the importance of centering their application in citizen science communities in citizen science and projects. Andrea Clements, a physical environmental justice. He highlighted scientist from US Environment Pro- the need for authentic engagement tection Agency, provided an overview and community ownership in setting of the state of low cost sensor devel- the agenda and decision-making. opment and highlighted the benefits and limitations of these sensors. Graeme Carvlin from Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, presented on what Lauren Pineault, a research analyst the agency is doing with low from Health Canada described recent cost sensors and actions they studies of traffic related air pollu- are taking to engage and tion exposure in Canadian cities. The educate local communities. studies found that the socioeconomic Matt Wagstaff, from Envi- factors associated with disparities rochem Services Inc., spoke varied from city to city and that vis- about a mobile monitoring ible minorities, immigrants, and lower unit developed to evaluate income groups are more likely to be the impact of residential wood smoke The workshop was attended by 132 exposed to higher levels of air pol- in small communities in B.C. Ian participants in person with an ad- lution because they are more likely Longley, a scientist from the National ditional 14 groups joining remotely to live in larger cities with poorer air via webcast. The recordings from the quality. workshop are available David Spink, of Pravid Envi- on-line ( https://bc.lung. ronmental Inc., spoke on be- ca/health-professionals/ half of the community of Fort air-quality-health-workshop) McKay about the issues they along with podcast inter- face as a result of views that were com- development adjacent to their pleted with each of the community and within their speakers the day of the workshop.

6 2020 Clean Air Champion Natalie Suzuki

This year’s Clean Air Champion working group seeking to develop CAAQS for PM2.5, ozone, should be familiar to regular read- nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide. The CAAQS is the ers of the State of the Air Report. next generation of national ambient air quality standards A top-notch air chemistry engineer and scientist, Natalie created under the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Suzuki has graced the report’s masthead as member of Environment. Natalie served as the B.C. lead for implemen- the working committee since the publication’s inception in tation and reporting on the new standards. 2005. She has also been a constant guiding presence in the annual Air Quality & Health Workshop. But Natalie’s commitment to improving air quality in British Columbia went far beyond her many fruitful partnerships with the BC Lung Association (BCLA) – work that con- cluded upon her well-earned retirement from public service in April 2020. In a career spanning over 30 years, the last 20 of which were spent as Air Quality Science Specialist, Natalie wore Colleagues, partners, and friends alike will always be grate- various hats in countless air quality projects. However, two ful for Natalie’s invaluable contributions to her many work- achievements stand out as her enduring legacy: Help- ing groups – the Air Quality & Health Steering Committee, ing develop Provincial Air Quality Objectives and national the Air Quality Liaison Group, and the Regional Ground Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) for fine Level Ozone Strategy Steering Committee, to name a few. particulate matter (PM2.5). But they’ll also remember Natalie for her ability to stay calm “Natalie leaves behind a under trying circumstances; her gift for communicating difficult issues to government officials and the public; her legacy of improving sharp, dry sense of humour; and – for those who truly knew air quality for all British Natalie – her love of her cat. Columbians and “Natalie always impressed me with her dedication, profes- reducing sionalism, and expertise as much as with her kindness and their health risks.” humility,” remarked Menn Biagtan, BCLA Vice President for Health Initiatives & Programs. As the science on air quality effects on human health “I’ve known Natalie since our UBC undergrad days, and evolved, efforts to develop Canada Wide Standards (CWS) was so happy to get a chance to ‘grow up’ with her in age for PM2.5 were launched. Natalie recognized that the CWS and experience (not height!) in the air quality field. Metro would not support regional staff’s issuance of air quality Vancouver’s air quality program will miss her,” mused advisories, so she took the lead in developing a 24-hour Roger Quan, Director of Air Quality and Climate Change at PM2.5 air quality objective for B.C. It was a bold and un- Metro Vancouver. precedented initiative at that time, requiring both scientific “Natalie leaves behind a legacy of improving air quality and public relations skills to develop and implement. for all British Columbians and reducing their health risks,” Equally important, Natalie represented B.C. on the inter- noted Glen Okrainetz, retired Director at the Ministry of governmental committee and multi-stakeholder review Environment and Climate Change Strategy.

7 POLLUTION LEVELS How Does BC Measure Up? Pollution Levels How does B.C. Measure Up Weather has a significant influence on air quality levels in B.C. In 2019, parts of the province reported record low temperatures—around 9 degrees below normal—due to an Arctic polar vortex that prevailed across Canada from January to February.1 The cold, stable conditions, and residential

wood combustion resulted in a build-up of PM2.5 levels and issuance of PM2.5-related air quality advisories in a number of communities across northern B.C. The summer wildfire season of 2019 was unexpectedly mild with 21,138 hectares of land burnt in 825 wildfires.2 In sharp contrast, 1.2 million and 1.35 million hectares were burned in 2017 and 2018 wildfire seasons, respectively. As a result, no wildfire-related air quality advisories were issued in 2019 for Metro Vancouver whereas in the previous year, it stayed under

air quality advisories for 18 days due to elevated levels of PM2.5 and ground-level ozone. In the following sections, air quality data collected in 2019 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 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 disease.3

In 2019, PM2.5 was monitored at more than 60 sites across the province for at least a portion of the year. Annual average concentrations ranged from 3.2 µg/m3 in Prince Rupert-Fairview to 10.6 µg/m3 in Houston. A total of 7 sites exceeded the provincial annual objective of 8 µg/m3 and 3 exceeded the provincial 24-hour objective of 25 µg/m3. 4 These are down from the previous year where 19 and 24 of the sites exceeded the annual and 24-hour objectives,

respectively. The elevated PM2.5 levels for 2019 were concentrated in the cold months during periods of stagnant weather, particularly February, when outbreaks of Arctic air produced historic low temperatures across B.C.

1 https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/top-ten-weather-stories/2019. 3 Gan, W.Q.; Koehoorn, M.; Davies, H.W.; Demers, P.A.; Tamburic, L.;Brauer,M. 2011, “Long-Term html#toc5 Exposure to Traffic-Related Air Pollution and the Risk of Coronary Heart Disease Hospitalization and 2 https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/about-bcws/wildfire-history/wildfire- Mortality”, Environmental Health Perspectives,vol.119, no.4, pp. 501-507. season-summary 4 Based on the annual 98th percentile of daily average

8 Ground-level Ozone Nitrogen Dioxide Ground-level ozone (O3) is a reactive gas that forms in the Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) is a reddish-brown gas that atmosphere from reactions involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) is associated with emissions from high-temperature and volatile hydrocarbons in the presence of sunlight. A major combustion. NO2 is mostly formed in the atmosphere source of both NOx and hydrocarbons in B.C. is the transpor- from reactions involving nitrogen oxide (NO) and ground- tation sector, including motor vehicles. Short-term exposures level ozone. The largest sources of NO in B.C. include the to ozone can cause breathing difficulties, an aggravation of transportation sector and industry. Short-term exposures asthma symptoms and other lung diseases, and premature to NO2 are linked to respiratory illness, and there is growing death. There is growing evidence that long-term exposures evidence of effects from long-term exposure, including may be associated with the development of respiratory effects, cardiovascular mortality, cancer and reproductive effects. especially in the young and the elderly. In 2019, NO2 levels were monitored at more than 50 In 2019, ozone was monitored at 47 monitoring sites. Eight- sites. One-hour concentrations ranged from 21 ppb in hour concentrations ranged from 31 ppb in Kelowna to 53 ppb Farmington to 53 ppb in Vancouver-Clark Drive.7 All sites in Cranbrook and Hope5. No site exceeded the national stan- were well below the provincial objective of 100 ppb and dard of 63 ppb5, unlike the previous years where seven sites the national standard of 60 ppb over one year.8 in the Lower Fraser Valley and Metro Vancouver exceeded the level due to conditions favourable to ozone formation, such as wildfire smoke under sunny, warm conditions.

5 Based on the annual 4th highest daily 8-hour maximum concentration over one year. 6 Achievement of the national standard is based on a similar statistical form as presented, averaged over three years. 7 Based on annual 98th percentile of daily one-hour maximum concentration. 8 The Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standard (CAAQS) of 60 ppb is based on a three-year average. 9 Sulphur Dioxide Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is a colourless, highly reactive gas TRENDS with a pungent odour. Major sources of SO2 include the upstream oil and gas sector, metal smelting facilities, the Air Pollution pulp and paper sector, and marine vessels. Short-term Through the Years exposures to SO2 can aggravate asthma and increase respiratory symptoms.

In 2019, SO2 was monitored at 43 sites, excluding We look at trends in air pollution to mobile and industrial fenceline sites. One-hour SO2 levels assess the effectiveness of actions to ranged from 2.7 ppb in Chilliwack to 131.3 ppb at Trail- improve air quality and to determine Butler Park.­9 The majority of monitoring sites recorded 1-hour levels less than 10 ppb. Trail-area sites were the the need for additional work. The only locations to observe exceedances of the provincial following figures provide 10-year trends objective of 75 ppb in 2019. in annual concentrations in the most heavily populated areas of the province, and the minimum and maximum concentrations across all B.C. sites.

9 Based on the annual 98th 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.

10 PM2.5 levels (shown as annual average) have been increas- NO2 levels (shown as annual average) have generally ingly influenced by wildfire smoke over the past decade. declined in urban areas over the past decade, largely due to

In 2014 and 2015, wildfire impacts on PM2.5 levels were more stringent vehicle emission standards and other local observed in parts of the province (e.g. Prince George and actions. There is evidence that trends have plateaued or Kelowna). In 2017 and 2018 especially, wildfire smoke started to increase. The introduction of vehicles meeting the was widespread and several sites, including Prince George, 2017 Tier 3 emission standards, and an increasing switch Kelowna, Chilliwack and Victoria, observed their highest towards zero-emission are expected to improve air quality average concentrations over the past decade. The mild 2019 over the next decade as the new technology penetrates wildfire season brought PM2.5 below 2017 levels for most vehicle fleets. sites including Burnaby, Chilliwack, and Victoria.

Ozone levels (shown as 4th highest daily 8-hour maxima) SO2 levels (shown as annual average) in urban areas are also known to be influenced by wildfire smoke. Siberian remain low – less than 3 ppb throughout the last decade. wildfire smoke in 2012 and B.C. wildfires in 2015, 2017, and This reflects efforts to reduce sulphur content in motor 2018 are believed to have contributed to higher ozone levels vehicle and marine fuels and a reduction of emissions from in these years.10,11 the petroleum refining and cement industries.

10 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. 11 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. 11 UPDATES from Partner Agencies

and exposure to traffic-related air pollutants. Regulatory Updates The Metro Vancouver Board has ad- Air Quality and Climate ‘Near Road’ Air Quality opted a new bylaw to manage resi- Change Planning Monitoring Study dential wood burning. Wood smoke Metro Vancouver is seeking public Metro Vancouver’s regional air from residential indoor wood burning

feedback on a series of discussion quality has continually improved is the most significant source of PM2.5 papers that explore opportunities to over the past several decades, but emissions in the region, contribut- reduce greenhouse gas emis- a new national Near Road Air ing more than a quarter of the total

sions and air contaminants Quality Monitoring pilot annual PM2.5 emissions. Exposure to in the region. The first study confirms that wood smoke is of particular concern three discussion papers concentrations of air in densely populated urban areas, due focus on three of the contaminants are higher to the proximity of a single smoking largest contributors of near major roads. More chimney to multiple neighbours. The emissions in our region: than one million Metro new bylaw will reduce wood smoke transportation, build- Vancouver residents – emissions through a phased approach ings, and industry. The nearly half the population – that will include seasonal restrictions, discussion papers will sup- live within 250 metres of a major registration require- port implementation of Climate 2050 road, according to the study, which ments, and and the Clean Air Plan, and identify was conducted by Metro Vancouver limits on the and prioritize goals and actions to with Environment and Climate Change operation of reduce emissions and impacts in our Canada, the Ministry of older more region over the next five to ten years, Environment, Conservation and Parks polluting and support the transition to a carbon and the University of Toronto. wood- neutral and climate resilient region by The study helped to determine public burning 2050. For more, visit www.metrovan- exposure to air contaminants such as appliances. couver.org and search ‘Clean Air Plan’ fine particulate matter, black carbon, Metro Vancouver or ‘Climate 2050’. nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic tightened its rules for older non-road Regional Air Quality compounds. The study also indicated diesel engines, requiring owners of Objectives that while large trucks make up only older forklifts, excavators and other Metro Vancouver updated regional 6% of traffic at the near-road station, engines to register their equipment ambient air quality objectives for they contribute a disproportionate by January 31, 2020. All “Tier 0” and nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and carbon amount of vehicle-related “Tier 1” non-road diesel engines, monoxide in 2019. The new objectives emissions. Metro which have little-to-no emis- will drive continuous improvement in Vancouver is sion controls, must now be regional air quality and further protect operating the near- registered and labelled as public health and the environment. road station on a part of the Non-Road Diesel The objectives will continue to be permanent basis Engine Emission Regulation used for air quality planning, air quality and looking to Bylaw, introduced in 2012 advisories, air permit decisions, and develop a program to manage emissions and regulatory development. to reduce emissions protect the region’s overall air

12 quality. Tier 0 and 1 engines that have not been registered will not be able to operate in the region after this date. Metro Vancouver is seeking feedback on a proposed alternative approach to regulating emissions from open-air burning of vegetative debris. Several thousand open-air burning events of vegetative debris occur in various sizes across the region each year, leading to smoke emissions that con- tain fine particulate matter, nitrogen Residential Radon Regional Ground Level oxides, volatile organic compounds, Ozone Strategy and other harmful compounds, some A need to update the 2014 Regional of which are associated with health Ground Level Ozone Strategy (RGLOS) and environmental issues and climate emerged from changes observed in change. Metro Vancouver currently regional ozone formation patterns and authorizes emissions from this activity precursor balance The FVRD chairs the through site-specific approvals. The RGLOS Steering Committee of regional proposed regulation is intended to air quality experts working to prepare provide a streamlined, more efficient an update for the Strategy, expected in way to authorize open-air burning 2020-21. of vegetative debris, where specified requirements are met. The FVRD is working with health Small Community Monitoring For updates on consultation activities, professionals to support regional 2019 saw an increase in interest for visit www.metrovancouver.org/ser- initiatives on improving radon Citizen Science among scientists and vices/air-quality/consultation. awareness and protect residents from communities and for use of portable potential exposure to this radioactive sensors for air quality testing. The gas. In 2019 the FVRD organized FVRD is in the process of reviewing and hosted a workshop on radon potential application of this technology awareness for building professionals, to provide improved air quality planners, and engineers within the services to our small, rural, and remote region. The workshop focused on communities where regular stationary various aspects of radon risk including monitoring is not feasible. health information, regulations, and methods to monitor and mitigate radon accumulation in buildings. Caring for the Air Metro Vancouver’s annual Caring for the Air Report has more air quality and climate change stories at www. metrovancouver.org/air.

(Cont’d on p.14) 13 (Cont’d from p.13 - Updates: From Partner Agencies)

Quantifying and Monetizing the the variability in the location and mag- est susceptibility occurs outside of Health Impact of Air Pollution nitude of the wildfires. major urban centres. Other publica- tions related to a wide range of health Health Canada, in collaboration A science assessment of the link outcomes, pollution sources and ex- with colleagues at Environment and between exposure to traffic-related posure, pollutant characteristics, and Climate Change Canada, updated air pollution and adverse outcomes new investigative methods. estimates of health impacts of air pol- relating to asthma, allergies and lung lution. Using the Air Quality Benefits function is expected to be published in AQHI Assessment Tool they estimate that the coming months. Work continues on refining the Air 1,600 premature deaths in B.C. in Recent Research Quality Health Index and, in col- calendar year 2015 can be linked to Health Canada scientists, with their laboration with BC MENV and BC above-background air pollution (fine many collaborators, published more CDC, new research was published particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide than 50 air pollution research papers on the application of an alternative and ozone) from all sources, with an in the last year. Health Canada par- formula for wildfire smoke conditions economic valuation of $11.5B per ticipated in an international evaluation (doi.org/10.17269/s41997-019- year (http://publications.gc.ca/site/ that showed independent associa- 00237-w). eng/9.874080/publication.html). tions between short-term exposure Indoor Air Nationally, the health burden of air to particulate matter and daily pollution was estimated at 14,600 Health Canada is working all-cause, cardiovascular, and premature deaths, 2.7 million asthma towards finalizing pro- respiratory mortality in more symptom days, and 35 million acute posed Formaldehyde than 600 cities across the respiratory symptom days, with a total Emissions from globe (DOI: 10.1056/NEJ- economic valuation equal to $114B Composite Wood Moa1817364). Another per year. Products Regula- study analysed approxi- tions. The regula- HC has also analysed national health mately 1 million births in tions are intended to impacts attributable to wildfire smoke 24 Canadian cities between help reduce exposure in recent years (doi.org/10.1016/j.sci- 1999 and 2008 and found asso- of Canadians to formal- totenv.2020.138506). Based on ex- ciations between daily O3 in the week dehyde emissions in indoor air from posures derived from chemical trans- before delivery and preterm birth (doi. composite wood products sold, of- port modeling of wildfire emissions, org/10.1186/s12940-018-0440-8). fered for sale or imported into Canada. this study estimates that between An analysis of risk factors that Health Canada will be publishing draft 2013 and 2018 (2016 make people more suscep- Residential Guide- excluded), 65 to 1,900 tible to the health effects lines for acrolein and carbon dioxide in premature deaths per of air pollution found the coming year and presenting a new year in B.C. can be at- that overall, one to two risk assessment prioritization process. tributed to smoke dur- thirds of the Canadian New assessments have been initiated ing the wildfire season population is at higher on xylenes and benzene. (May-September). The risk and that the great- range of impacts over the different study years reflects

14 Canadian Ambient Air Quality Stan- dards. Moreover, individual communi- ties may provide additional incentives to residents depending on their own local program funding. More informa- tion on the Provincial Wood Stove Exchange Program can be found at: Provincial Air Quality Objectives. The Regulatory Updates https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/ intent of the framework is to outline Open burning of vegetative debris environment/air-land-water/air/air- the process and key considerations in B.C. is generally governed by the pollution/smoke-burning/exchange. for developing air quality objectives Open Burning Smoke Control Regula- in the province, mainly through key SO2 AQHI-Plus for Kitimat tion (OBSCR), and a new form of the goals, guiding principles and general Earlier in 2018, ENV initiated a pilot regulation was recently enacted and approach. Guided by this framework project to alert the Kitimat public of came into effect on September 15, and recognizing the important role periods when sulphur dioxide (SO2) 2019. Among the several changes in of the established Canadian Ambient levels are elevated. In collaboration the new regulation that enhance the Air Quality Standards (CAAQS), the with Environment and Climate Change management of open burning in the Ministry is committed to reviewing Canada (ECCC), an updated Air Qual- Province, significant provisions have and updating its own interim ambient ity Health Index (AQHI-Plus for SO2) been introduced for the protection of air quality objectives (AQOs) for nitro- has been developed and recently im- air quality in communities, such as: gen dioxide (NO2) that were adopted plemented. The AQHI-Plus provides a • Dividing the Province into three in 2014. This process is currently way to include pollutants such as SO2 Smoke Sensitivity Zones – High, underway and will actively involve key and PM2.5,

Medium and Low. stakeholders. The new AQOs for NO2 which • Strictest burning requirements in will be accompanied by an updated may cause the High zone immediately around application guide to inform the AQOs’ short-term communities. implementation in B.C. health im- • Increases to mandatory setbacks Provincial Wood Stove pacts not from residences, businesses, schools Exchange Program otherwise and hospitals. captured The Ministry has recently commit- • Defining exemptions for backyard by the ted to funding the Provincial Wood burning and agricultural AQHI. The Stove Exchange Program for the burning. AQHI-Plus for SO2 is currently imple- next two years at $300,000 Implementation mented in Kitimat to alert the public annually. This funding will of the new when levels of SO2 may affect the continue to support the 21 regulation is general population as well as persons local programs currently be- well under way with chronic respiratory conditions like ing offered in the province, throughout the asthma. which involve several re- province, and gional districts and municipal Air Quality Subscription Service more information is partners. Program incentives The Ministry is now offering an Air available at the OBSCR include: $250 for changing to a Quality Subscription Service, whereby website. cleaner-burning wood stove; $400 for citizens can sign up to receive email AQOs Framework and changing to qualifying cleaner heat- notifications for Air Quality Advisories, NO2 Updates ing appliances such as electric heat Smoky Skies Bulletins and SO2 Alerts The Ministry of Environment and pumps or pellet-fuelled stoves; which for Kitimat. Furthermore, SMS notifi- Climate Change Strategy (ENV) has is bumped up to $500 for “Red Zone” cations via text messages are cur- recently published an updated Pro- communities, where levels of fine rently under development within this vincial Framework for Developing particulate matter (PM2.5) exceed the subscription service. 15 VISIT/CONTACT

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 We welcome your feedback! 420-757 Hastings St. W Please send correspondence to: Vancouver, B.C. V6C 1A1 NORTHERN HEALTH AUTHORITY Dr. Menn Biagtan (604) 666 – 2083 www.northernhealth.ca [email protected] Suite 600, 299 Victoria St. (604) 731-5864 BC CENTRE FOR DISEASE Prince George, B.C. V2L 5B8 B.C. Lung Association CONTROL (250) 565-2649 2675 Oak Street www.bccdc.ca Vancouver, BC V6H 2K2 655 West 12th Ave ISLAND HEALTH AUTHORITY Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4R4 www.viha.ca (604) 707-2400 1952 Bay Street Victoria, B.C. V8R 1J8

ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE (250) 370- 8699 Working Group: CHANGE CANADA Tarek Ayache Derek Jennejohn www.ec.gc.ca VANCOUVER COASTAL Menn Biagtan Marina Richter 401 Burrard Street Michael Brauer Jerome Robles HEALTH AUTHORITY Chris Carlsten Meghan Roushorne Vancouver, B.C. V6C 3S5 www.vch.ca Sarah Henderson Natalie Suzuki (604) 664-9100 601 West Broadway, 11th Floor,

Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4C2 Unsplash Photos by Julian Wan, Next Green Wave, Kimzy Nanney, Joanne Francis, Alex Presa , Marcus Kauffman, Daniel (604) 736-2033 or Nainggolan, Nikolas Noonan, Jon Tyson 1-866-884-0888 Pexels Photos by Andrea Piacquadio, Zhanzat Mamytova 16