2008 Lower Fraser Valley Air Quality Report

May 2010 Summary This annual report summarizes the air quality Douglas (Peace Arch) Border Crossing in monitoring data collected by the Lower Fraser Surrey. Valley (LFV) Air Quality Monitoring Network in 2008 and describes the air quality monitoring Pollutants Monitored activities and programs conducted during the Pollutants are emitted to the air from a variety year. The main focus is to report on the state of human activities and natural phenomena. of ambient (outdoor) air quality in the LFV. Once airborne, the resulting pollutant concentrations are dependant on several LFV Air Quality Monitoring Network factors, including the weather, topography and The LFV Air Quality Monitoring Network chemical reactions in the atmosphere. includes 26 air quality monitoring stations located from Horseshoe Bay in West Common air contaminants, including ozone Vancouver to Hope. Metro Vancouver (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide operates 22 stations in Metro Vancouver, as (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate well as 4 stations in the Fraser Valley matter, are widely monitored throughout the Regional District (FVRD) under an agreement network. Particulate matter is composed of with the FVRD. Air quality and weather data very small particles that remain suspended in from most of these stations are collected the air. They are further distinguished by their automatically on a continuous basis, size, which is measured in units of a millionth transmitted to Metro Vancouver’s Head Office of a metre (or micrometre). Particles with a in Burnaby, and stored in an electronic diameter less than 10 micrometres are database. The data are then used to referred to as inhalable particulate (PM10), communicate information to the public in the while those less than 2.5 micrometres are form of an air quality health index. termed fine particulate (PM2.5). Both PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations are monitored Air quality monitoring stations are located throughout the LFV. throughout the LFV to help understand the air quality levels that residents are exposed to Other pollutants less widely monitored in the most of the time. This report shows how these network include ammonia, volatile organic levels have varied throughout the region in compounds (VOC), and total reduced sulphur 2008 and how these levels have changed (TRS). over time. Trends in air quality measured by the Air Quality Monitoring Network are useful Priority Pollutants in evaluating the effectiveness of pollutant Research indicates that adverse health effects emission reductions undertaken as part of can occur at air quality levels measured in the Metro Vancouver’s Air Quality Management LFV. Health experts have identified exposure Plan. to ozone and particulate matter as being associated with the most serious health Special Air Quality Monitoring effects. Ozone is a strong oxidant that can In addition to the long-term Monitoring irritate the eyes, nose and throat, and reduce Network stations, Metro Vancouver deploys lung function. PM2.5 particles are small portable air quality stations and instruments to enough to be breathed deeply into the lungs, conduct special monitoring studies. Special resulting in impacts to both respiratory and studies typically investigate suspected cardiovascular systems. Long-term exposure problem areas (or “hot spots”) at the local or to these pollutants can aggravate existing community level, or survey potential locations heart and lung diseases and lead to for new long-term stations. In 2008, special premature mortality. studies were initiated in New Westminster, Surrey, the Burrard Inlet areas of Vancouver, Of particular concern is the PM2.5 emitted from Burnaby and North Vancouver, and at the diesel fuel combustion in car, truck, marine,

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page S - 1 rail and non-road engines. These particles and particulate matter), Metro Vancouver’s (“diesel PM”) are thought to contribute ambient air quality objectives, and provincial significantly to the health effects identified objectives. As part of the Air Quality above. Reducing emissions from diesel Management Plan (AQMP) adopted by Metro engines is a priority of Metro Vancouver’s Vancouver in October 2005, health-based diesel emission reduction program. In ambient air quality objectives were set for addition, during 2008 the capacity for ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM2.5 and monitoring these particles was increased in PM10), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide the Air Quality Monitoring Network. (NO2) and carbon monoxide (CO). During 2008 Metro Vancouver’s objectives were more Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) stringent than both the Canada-Wide In 2008 the commonly reported air quality Standards and provincial objectives for these index was replaced by a new national health- air pollutants. based Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). Developed by Environment Canada and In April 2009 the provincial government Health Canada, the AQHI is intended to established new air quality objectives for communicate the health risks associated with PM2.5. A 24-hour objective is numerically the a mix of air pollutants to the public and same as Metro Vancouver’s objective. provide guidance on how individuals can Compliance with Metro Vancouver’s objective adjust their exposure and physical activities as requires no exceedances, while the provincial air pollution levels change. The AQHI is objective allows for some exceedances each calculated every hour using monitoring data year. The province’s annual target of 8 from stations in the LFV. AQHI forecasts are micrograms per cubic metre and an annual also available (for today, tonight and planning goal of 6 micrograms per cubic metre tomorrow). More information on the AQHI, as are more stringent than the annual objective well as current and forecast values in the LFV, previously set by Metro Vancouver. is available at: Air Quality Advisories http://www.airhealth.ca, Periods of degraded air quality can occur in http://www.airhealthbc.ca, and the LFV for several reasons, such as http://www.bcairquality.ca/readings/index.html summertime smog during hot weather or smoke from forest fires. Air quality advisories are issued to the public and health authorities when air quality has deteriorated or is predicted to deteriorate significantly within the LFV.

One air quality advisory for ozone was issued during August 2008 for one day during hot sunny weather. In the last ten years, the number of days when air quality advisories were in place ranged from zero to as many as seven days annually.

Visibility and Haze Visibility can also be degraded in the LFV, causing local views to become partially Air Quality Objectives and Standards obscured in haze. This haze may have Several pollutant-specific air quality objectives different characteristics depending on the and standards are used as benchmarks to location. In much of Metro Vancouver, characterize air quality. They include the especially the more urbanized areas to the federal Canada-Wide Standards (for ozone west, the haze can have a brownish appearance due to emissions of nitrogen

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page S - 2 oxides from transportation sources. Further Figure S1: Nitrogen Dioxide Trends east in the LFV impaired visibility is often 120 associated with a white haze, which is due to Short-Term Peak small particles (PM2.5) in the air that scatter 100 ) Average light. 3 g/m  80

Monitoring conducted for assessing visibility 60 and haze includes continuous measurements of ammonia, PM and important constituents 40 2.5 ( Concentration 2

(for example, particulate nitrate, particulate NO sulphate, elemental carbon and organic 20 carbon) and light scattering. Seven automated 0 digital cameras are also operated throughout 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 the LFV to record views along specific lines of sight. When these photographs are examined Figure S2: Sulphur Dioxide Trends alongside the pollutant measurements, 70 visibility impairment can be related to pollution 60 Short-Term Peak concentrations and their sources. New ) 3 Average 50 visibility monitoring instruments are being g/m considered as part of a multi-agency initiative  40 to develop a pilot visibility improvement strategy for the LFV. 30 Concentration ( Concentration

2 20

Regional Trends in Air Quality SO 10 Long-term regional trends in air quality are 0 the trends observed within the LFV as a 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 whole. They are determined by averaging Figure S3: Carbon Monoxide Trends measurements from several stations distributed throughout the LFV. 5000

Short-Term Peak 4000 ) Average concentrations are the ambient 3 Average g/m concentrations that the region experiences  most of the time. Short-term peak 3000 concentrations refer to relatively infrequent higher concentrations experienced for short 2000 periods (one hour to one day). Specific CO ConcentrationCO ( locations may have experienced trends that 1000 differ slightly from this regional picture. 0 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 Improvements have been made over the last two decades for some pollutants, Figure S4: Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Trends including carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen 50 dioxide (NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2) and Short-Term Peak particulate matter (PM2.5). Figures S1 to S4 Average ) show that both short-term peak and average 3 40 g/m concentrations have declined since the late  eighties for these pollutants. Similarly, 30 concentrations of volatile organic compounds 20 have also declined (not shown). Concentration ( Concentration 2.5 10 Despite significant population growth in the PM region over the same time period, emission 0 reductions across a variety of sectors have 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page S - 3 brought about these improvements. Improved maximum has shifted eastward over time. A vehicle emission standards and the AirCare study led by UBC researchers proposes to program are largely responsible for lower better understand ozone in the LFV and to carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide suggest the most effective strategies to help (NO2) levels. improve ozone levels.

Reduced sulphur in on-road fuels, the shutdown of several refineries in Metro Figure S5: PM2.5 Trends Vancouver and reduced emissions from the 20 cement industry have led to the measured Short-Term Peak reductions in sulphur dioxide (SO2) levels. Average ) 3 Emission reductions from wood products 15 g/m sectors, petroleum refining, and vehicles have  contributed to the decline in PM2.5 levels. In recent years, peak and average levels of 10 carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide Concentration (

(NO2) have continued to decline, while it 2.5 5 PM appears that both sulphur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter (PM2.5) may be levelling off. 0 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 Note that Figure S4 shows long-term PM2.5 trends from a single monitoring station with a long record of non-continuous filter-based Figure S6: Ozone Trends monitoring (Port Moody). Figure S5 illustrates the regional PM2.5 trends since 1999, when 70 Short-Term Peak continuous PM2.5 monitoring occurred more 60 Average widely throughout the LFV. These data also 50 indicate that PM2.5 levels have been relatively constant in recent years, although with some 40 year-to-year variability. 30

Concentration (ppb)

3 20

For ozone, the same improvements seen for O other pollutants have not been observed. In 10 contrast, while average regional ozone levels 0 (Figure S6) decreased slightly in the early 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 nineties, they have generally shown an upward trend since that time. Research shows that background ozone concentrations are rising and are a major reason for the observed increase in average levels.

Regionally averaged short-term peak ozone trends are shown by the Canada-Wide Standard calculation in Figure S6. This indicates that the severity of ozone episodes has diminished since the 1980s and early 1990s, but has been mainly unchanged during the last ten to fifteen years, despite large reductions in emissions of pollutants that contribute to ozone formation.

On-going research indicates that the highest ozone levels are occurring in the eastern parts of the LFV and that the location of the

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page S - 4 Ozone Air Quality – 2008

Monitoring results for all ozone monitoring stations in 2008 are shown in Figure S7. The data show that peak ozone levels, as Ozone is termed a secondary measured by both the Canada-Wide Standard pollutant because it is not emitted value and the maximum 8-hour average, directly to the air. Ozone is formed occurred in the eastern parts of Metro in the atmosphere by reactions Vancouver and in the FVRD during sunny and amongst gases, such as nitrogen hot weather. oxides (NO ) and volatile organic X compounds (VOC), on hot sunny In 2008 the Canada-Wide Standard for ozone days. NO emissions are was met at all monitoring stations. However, X dominated by transportation Metro Vancouver has set a more stringent sources, with nearly 80% of the ozone objective to encourage better air quality emissions coming from cars, in the Lower Fraser Valley. Port Moody and trucks, marine vessels, and non- North Delta exceeded this 8-hour ozone road engines. The main objective during an early summertime smog contributors to VOC emissions are event in May. Hope exceeded Metro natural sources (like trees and Vancouver’s 8-hour objective for one day in vegetation), cars, light trucks, and June and both Hope and Chilliwack exceeded solvent evaporation from industrial, for one day in August. commercial and consumer

products. One air quality advisory for ozone was issued during August 2008 for one day during hot sunny weather.

FIGURE S7: OZONE (O3 ), 2008

Metro Vancouver 8-Hour Objective (65 ppb) AND Canada-Wide Standard (65 ppb)

Hope Chilliwack Maple Ridge Langley Abbotsford Airport Abbotsford-Mill Lake Surrey East Burnaby Mountain Pitt Meadows Coquitlam Richmond South Port Moody Vancouver-Kitsilano Richmond-Airport N. Vancouver-Mahon Park North Delta Burnaby-Kensington Park Burnaby South Canada-Wide Standard Value N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows Maximum 8-Hour Average Vancouver-Downtown

0 102030405060708090100 concentration (ppb)

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page S - 5 Particulate Matter Air Quality – 2008

Monitoring results for all PM2.5 monitoring stations in 2008 are shown in Figure S8. There were no exceedances of Metro Vancouver’s 24-hour PM2.5 objective in 2008.

Average levels were below Metro Vancouver’s PM2.5 emissions are dominated by transportation, space heating, and annual PM2.5 objective. Average levels also met the new provincial annual target of 8 industrial sources. PM2.5 is also micrograms per cubic metre and the annual formed by reactions of nitrogen planning goal of 6 micrograms per cubic oxide (NOX) and sulphur dioxide metre. (SO2) with ammonia in the air. PM2.5 produced in this manner is In addition, all locations were well below the termed secondary PM2.5 and accounts for a significant Canada-wide Standard for PM2.5. percentage of PM2.5 in summer. Two stations in the network (one in each of Metro Vancouver and the FVRD) conduct very detailed PM2.5 monitoring. Samples are collected and the chemical composition of PM2.5 is determined later in a federal laboratory. This information can be used to determine some of the emission sources contributing to PM2.5 in the air.

FIGURE S8: PARTICULATE MATTER (PM2.5 ), 2008

Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver Annual Objective (12 g/m3) 24-Hour Objective (25 g/m3)

Hope

Langley

Chilliwack

N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows

Port Moody

Pitt Meadows

Burnaby-Kensington Park

Burnaby South

Vancouver-Kitsilano

Abbotsford Airport Annual Average

Richmond-Airport Maximum 24-Hour Average

Horseshoe Bay

010203040 concentration (g/m3)

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page S - 6 Sulphur Dioxide Air Quality – 2008

Monitoring results for all sulphur dioxide (SO2) monitoring stations in 2008 are shown in Figure S9. Objectives for sulphur dioxide were met at all stations at all times.

Sulphur dioxide is formed primarily by the combustion of fossil fuels containing sulphur. The largest sources in the LFV are marine vessels (mainly ocean-going vessels) and the petroleum products industry. As a result, highest sulphur dioxide levels are typically recorded near the Burrard Inlet area. Away from the Burrard Inlet area, sulphur dioxide levels are much lower.

Sulphur dioxide also contributes to secondary PM2.5 formation.

FIGURE S9: SULPHUR DIOXIDE (SO2 ), 2008

Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver 3 3 Annual Objective (30 g/m3) 24-Hour Objective (125 g/m ) 1-Hour Objective (450 g/m )

Burnaby-Capitol Hill

Burnaby North

Port Moody

Vancouver-Downtown

Burnaby-Kensington Park

Vancouver-Kitsilano

N. Vancouver-Mahon Park

N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows

Richmond-Airport

Abbotsford Airport

Pitt Meadows

Burnaby South Annual Average Abbotsford-Mill Lake Maximum 24-Hour Average Langley Maximum 1-Hour Average Richmond South

Chilliwack

0 40 80 120 160 200 240 280 320 360 400 440 480 concentration (g/m3)

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page S - 7 Nitrogen Dioxide Air Quality – 2008 Carbon Monoxide Air Quality – 2008

Monitoring results for all nitrogen dioxide Carbon monoxide levels met all of the relevant Metro Vancouver air quality objectives at all (NO2) monitoring stations in 2008 are shown in Figure S10. All 1-hour nitrogen dioxide stations throughout the LFV (not shown). The averages were below Metro Vancouver’s principle source of carbon monoxide objective. Average levels also met Metro continues to be emissions from motor Vancouver’s annual objective at all stations vehicles. Higher concentrations generally except for Vancouver-Downtown. This station occur close to major roads during peak traffic is located in a dense urban environment and periods. Like nitrogen dioxide, the highest very near to a busy street. average carbon monoxide concentrations are measured in the more densely trafficked areas As nitrogen dioxide emissions are dominated and near busy roads. Lower concentrations by transportation sources, the highest average are observed where these influences are less nitrogen dioxide concentrations are measured pronounced, such as the eastern parts of in the more densely trafficked areas and near Metro Vancouver and in the FVRD. busy roads. Lower concentrations are observed where these influences are less pronounced, such as the eastern parts of Metro Vancouver and in the FVRD.

Nitrogen dioxide also contributes to secondary PM2.5 formation.

FIGURE S10: NITROGEN DIOXIDE (NO2 ), 2008

Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver Annual Objective (40 g/m3) 1-Hour Objective (200 g/m3)

N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows Richmond-Airport Richmond South Vancouver-Kitsilano Vancouver-Downtown Burnaby-Kensington Park Coquitlam Pitt Meadows North Delta Port Moody Maple Ridge Burnaby South Burnaby Mountain Abbotsford-Mill Lake N. Vancouver-Mahon Park Surrey East Chilliwack Annual Average Abbotsford Airport Hope Maximum 1-Hour Average Langley

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 concentration (g/m3)

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page S - 8 Contents

SUMMARY ...... S - 1 SECTION A – INTRODUCTION ...... 1

PRIORITY POLLUTANTS ...... 1 AIR QUALITY TRENDS ...... 1 VISIBILITY AND HAZE ...... 2 AIR QUALITY OBJECTIVES/STANDARDS ...... 2 AIR QUALITY HEALTH INDEX (AQHI)...... 3 AIR QUALITY ADVISORIES...... 3 SECTION B – LOWER FRASER VALLEY AIR QUALITY MONITORING NETWORK ...... 5

SECTION C – POLLUTANT MEASUREMENTS ...... 8

SULPHUR DIOXIDE (SO2) ...... 8 NITROGEN DIOXIDE (NO2)...... 10 CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) ...... 12

OZONE (O3) ...... 14 TOTAL REDUCED SULPHUR (TRS) ...... 17

INHALABLE PARTICULATE (PM10)...... 18 Non-Continuous Particulate (PM10)...... 20 FINE PARTICULATE (PM2.5)...... 21 Non-Continuous Particulate (PM2.5) ...... 23 AMMONIA (NH3)...... 25 VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS (VOC) ...... 26 SECTION D – VISIBILITY MONITORING ...... 28

SECTION E – METEOROLOGICAL MEASUREMENTS ...... 29

SECTION F – SPECIAL MONITORING INITIATIVES...... 32

SECTION G – MONITORING NETWORK OPERATIONS ...... 33

NETWORK HISTORY...... 33 MONITORING NETWORK PARTNERS ...... 33 QUALITY ASSURANCE AND CONTROL ...... 34 DATA BASE ...... 34

i List of Tables

Table 1: 2008 Air Quality Monitors ...... 7

List of Figures

Figure 1: Lower Fraser Valley Air Quality Monitoring Network - 2008 ...... 6 Figure 2: Sulphur dioxide monitoring, 2008 ...... 9 Figure 3: Regional sulphur dioxide trends ...... 9 Figure 4: Nitrogen dioxide monitoring, 2008...... 11 Figure 5: Regional nitrogen dioxide trends ...... 11 Figure 6: Carbon monoxide monitoring, 2008...... 13 Figure 7: Regional carbon monoxide trends ...... 13 Figure 8: 8-hour ozone monitoring, 2008 ...... 15 Figure 9: Hourly ozone monitoring, 2008 ...... 15 Figure 10: Regional ozone trends...... 16 Figure 11: Total reduced sulphur monitoring, 2008...... 17

Figure 12: Inhalable particulate (PM10) monitoring, 2008 ...... 19 Figure 13: Regional inhalable particulate (PM10) trends ...... 19 Figure 14: Non-continuous inhalable particulate (PM10) sampling, 2008 ...... 20 Figure 15: Fine particulate (PM2.5) monitoring, 2008...... 22 Figure 16: Regional fine particulate (PM2.5) trends ...... 22 Figure 17: Non-continuous particulate (PM2.5) monitoring, 2008...... 23 Figure 18: Fine particulate (PM2.5) trends at Port Moody...... 24 Figure 19: Ammonia monitoring, 2008 ...... 25 Figure 20: Total VOC monitoring, 2008...... 27 Figure 21: Regional source area trends for total VOC ...... 27 Figure 22: Total Precipitation monitoring, 2008...... 30 Figure 23: Temperature monitoring, 2008...... 30 Figure 24: Monthly temperature, 2008 – recorded at Metro Vancouver and Environment Canada operated stations ...... 31 Figure 25: Monthly precipitation, 2008 – recorded at Metro Vancouver and Environment Canada operated stations ...... 31

ii List of Acronyms

AQI Air Quality Index AQHI Air Quality Health Index AQMP Air Quality Management Plan BIALAQS Burrard Inlet Area Local Air Quality Study CWS Canada-Wide Standard FVRD Fraser Valley Regional District LFV Lower Fraser Valley MAMU Mobile Air Monitoring Unit NAPS National Air Pollution Surveillance program

CO Carbon monoxide NOX Nitrogen oxides NO2 Nitrogen dioxide NO Nitric oxide NH3 Ammonia O3 Ozone PM Particulate matter PM10 Inhalable particulate matter (particles smaller than 10 micrometres in diameter) PM2.5 Fine particulate matter (particles smaller than 2.5 micrometres in diameter) SOX Sulphur oxides SO2 Sulphur dioxide THC Total hydrocarbon TRS Total reduced sulphur compounds VOC Volatile organic compounds TVOC Total volatile organic compounds

iii Section A – Introduction

This annual report summarizes the air quality associated with the most serious health effects. monitoring data collected by the Lower Fraser Ozone is a strong oxidant that can irritate the eyes, Valley (LFV) Air Quality Monitoring Network in nose and throat, and reduce lung function. PM2.5 2008 and describes the air quality monitoring particles are small enough to be breathed deep activities and programs conducted during the year. into the lungs, resulting in impacts to both The main focus is to report on the state of ambient respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Long-term (outdoor) air quality in the LFV. exposure to these pollutants can aggravate existing heart and lung diseases and lead to The Lower Fraser Valley (LFV) Air Quality premature mortality. Monitoring Network comprises 26 air quality stations located from Horseshoe Bay in West Of particular concern is PM2.5 that is emitted from Vancouver to Hope. Pollutants monitored by the car, truck, marine and non-road engines that use network include both gases and particulate matter. diesel fuel. These particles (“diesel PM”) are The common air contaminants, including ozone thought to contribute significantly to the health (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide effects identified above. Detailed PM2.5 monitoring (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate can be used to estimate the concentrations of matter, are widely monitored throughout the these particles that originate from diesel engines. network. Very detailed analysis of PM2.5 is conducted at Particulate matter comprises very small solid three stations in the network, two in Metro particles and liquid droplets that remain suspended Vancouver and one in the FVRD. Various in the air. This air pollutant is characterized by compounds that form PM2.5 are identified later in a size, measured in units of a millionth of a metre (or federal laboratory from samples. These data can micrometre). Particles with a diameter smaller than be used to determine some of the emission 10 micrometres are referred to as inhalable sources contributing to PM2.5 in the air. particulate (PM10), while those smaller than 2.5 micrometres are termed fine particulate (PM2.5). Air Quality Trends Both PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations are monitored throughout the LFV. Improvements have been made over the last two decades for some pollutants, including nitrogen Other pollutants monitored by the network include dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur ammonia, volatile organic compounds (VOC), and dioxide (SO2), volatile organic compounds (VOC) odourous total reduced sulphur compounds (TRS), and particulate matter (PM2.5). Despite significant which are monitored primarily at stations near population growth in the region over the same time Burrard Inlet. period, emission reductions across a variety of sectors have brought about these improvements. Priority Pollutants For ground-level ozone, the long-term regional Research indicates that adverse health effects can trends generally show a more mixed story. While occur at air quality levels commonly measured in peak ozone concentrations are currently lower the LFV. Health experts have identified exposure than those experienced in the 1980s, average to ozone and particulate matter as being levels are higher. Although the long-term trends

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 1 show some year-to-year variability, peak ozone provide insight to the sources of visibility levels are largely unchanged during the last ten to degradation. fifteen years. Air Quality Objectives/Standards Regional trends for each pollutant are shown in the following sections of the report. They are the Several air quality objectives and standards are trends observed within the LFV as a whole and are used as benchmarks to characterize air quality. determined by annually averaged measurements The federal Canada-Wide Standards (for ozone from several stations distributed throughout the and particulate matter) and Metro Vancouver’s LFV. Specific locations may have experienced ambient air quality objectives are the most relevant trends that differ slightly from this regional picture. and current. As part of the Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) adopted by Metro Vancouver in Average concentrations are the ambient October 2005, new health-based ambient air concentrations that the region experiences most of quality objectives were set for ozone (O3), the time. Short-term peak concentrations refer to particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulphur relatively infrequent higher concentrations dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon experienced for short periods, usually on the order monoxide (CO). During 2008 Metro Vancouver’s of one to twenty-four hours. objectives were more stringent than the Canada- Wide Standards. Visibility and Haze In June 2000, the Canadian Council of Ministers of From time to time visibility can also be degraded in the Environment (CCME) adopted Canada-Wide the LFV, causing local mountains to become Standards for particulate matter (PM) and ozone partially obscured in haze. This haze may have (O3) that set specific targets to be reached by different characteristics depending on the location. 2010. In much of Metro Vancouver, especially the more urbanized areas to the west, the haze can have a Metro Vancouver’s PM2.5 objectives adopted in brownish appearance due to nearby emissions of 2005 were in advance of any similar objectives for nitrogen oxides from transportation sources. the rest of BC. In April 2009 the provincial Further east in the LFV impaired visibility is often government established new air quality objectives associated with a white haze, which is due to small for PM2.5. The provincial 24-hour objective of 3 particles (PM2.5) in the air that scatter light. 25 μg/m (micrograms per cubic metre) is numerically the same as Metro Vancouver’s 24- Monitoring conducted for assessing visibility and hour objective. However compliance with Metro haze includes continuous measurements of Vancouver’s objective requires that there are no ammonia, PM2.5 and important constituents (for exceedances whereas the provincial objective example, particulate nitrate, particulate sulphate, allows some exceedances. The province’s annual elemental carbon and organic carbon) of particles target of eight micrograms per cubic metre and as well as light scattering. A total of seven annual planning goal of six micrograms per cubic automated digital cameras are also operated metre are more stringent than the annual objective throughout the LFV to record views along specific previously set by Metro Vancouver. Metro lines-of-sight with recognizable topographical Vancouver expects to align its PM2.5 objectives features at known distances. When these with the province, or adopt new objectives which photographs are examined alongside the pollutant are more stringent than those of the province. measurements, visual range can be related to the concentrations of various PM2.5 particles and

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 2 Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)

In 2008 the commonly reported air quality index was replaced by a new national health-based Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). Developed by Environment Canada and Health Canada, the AQHI is intended to communicate the health risks associated with a mix of air pollutants to the public and provide guidance on how individuals can adjust their exposure and physical activities as air pollution levels change. The AQHI is calculated every hour using monitoring data from stations in the LFV. AQHI forecasts are also available (for today, tonight and tomorrow).

More information on the AQHI, as well as current and forecast values in the LFV, is available at: http://www.airhealth.ca, http://www.airhealthbc.ca, and http://www.bcairquality.ca/readings/index.html

Air Quality Advisories

In cooperation with partner agencies, including the Fraser Valley Regional District, Environment Canada and the BC Ministry of Environment, Metro Vancouver operates an air quality advisory program. Air quality advisories are issued to the public and health authorities when air quality has deteriorated or is predicted to deteriorate significantly within the LFV.

Periods of degraded air quality can occur in the LFV for several reasons, such as summertime smog during hot weather or smoke from forest fires. In the last ten years, the number of days on which air quality advisories were in place ranged from zero to as many as seven days annually. In 2008, one air quality advisory was issued. The advisory was issued for one day due to high ozone levels during hot sunny weather in August.

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 3 Section B – Lower Fraser Valley Air Quality Monitoring Network

During 2008, Metro Vancouver operated 26 air provided Metro Vancouver with several quality monitoring stations, from Horseshoe Bay in recommendations to improve and update the West Vancouver to Hope, as part of the Lower monitoring network. Implementation of the Fraser Valley (LFV) Air Quality Monitoring recommendations, which encompassed special Network. The network includes 22 stations located monitoring studies, changes in monitoring at in Metro Vancouver as well as 4 stations in the permanent stations, visibility monitoring, and Fraser Valley Regional District, operated under an network operations, was started in 2008. agreement with the FVRD. Air quality and weather data from most of these stations are collected automatically on a continuous basis, transmitted to Metro Vancouver’s head office in Burnaby, and stored in an electronic database. The data are then used to communicate information to the public through the AQHI.

In addition to the fixed monitoring stations, special short-term air quality monitoring studies are conducted using portable monitoring equipment, such as Metro Vancouver’s Mobile Air Monitoring Unit (MAMU), which is capable of monitoring gaseous and particulate pollutants.

This report summarizes data collected in 2008 from all air quality stations identified in Figure 1 and Table 1; compares measurements to federal, provincial and Metro Vancouver air quality objectives and standards; describes special monitoring activities undertaken during the year; and provides regional trends in air quality. While all monitored pollutants are assessed, the focus of the report is on the common air contaminants, including particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2).

A review of the LFV Air Quality Monitoring Network was undertaken in 2007 to ensure the monitoring network is current and continues to support Metro Vancouver’s Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) to improve air quality. Local consultants, researchers from the University of B.C. and an expert on air quality monitoring networks in the U.S. collaborated on the review and

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 5 Figure 1: Lower Fraser Valley Air Quality Monitoring Network - 2007

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 6 Table 1

2008 Air Quality Monitors

Air Quality Monitors Meteorological Monitors Stations Continuous Non-Continuous Continuous gases particulate matter

ID Name SO2 TRS NO2 CO O3 THC NH3 PM10 PM2.5 NEPH VOC SP D Wind T SR RH B P T1 Downtown Vancouver T2 Kitsilano T4 Kensington Park T6 Second Narrows T9 Port Moody T12Chilliwack T13 North Delta T14 Burnaby Mountain T15 Surrey East T17 Richmond South T18 Burnaby South T20 Pitt Meadows T22 Burmount T23 Capitol Hill T24 Burnaby North T25 Seymour Falls (S) Station not operated during 2008 due to construction at this location. Historically only O3 was monitored at this site T26 Mahon Park T27 Langley T29 Hope Airport T30 Maple Ridge T31 Vancouver Airport T32 Coquitlam T33 Abbotsford T34 Abbotsford Airport T35 Horseshoe Bay T37 Alex Fraser Bridge T38 Annacis Island 20 White Rock 24 English Bluff Total Monitoring Units 165201820241312410252524614820

SO2 = sulphur dioxide; TRS = total reduced sulphur; NO2 = nitrogen dioxide; CO = carbon monoxide; O3 = ozone; THC = total hydrocarbon; NH3 = ammonia. PM10 = inhalable particulate matter; PM2.5 = fine particulate matter; NEPH = particulate light scattering; VOC = volatile organic compounds. SP = particulate speciation; D = dichotomous particulate. Wind = wind speed and wind direction; T = air temperature; SR = solar radiation; RH = relative humidity; B = atmospheric pressure; P = precipitation = monitored at this location; (S) seasonal station.

Table 1: 2007 Air Quality Monitors

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 7 Section C – Pollutant Measurements

Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)

Characteristics Monitoring Results

Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is formed primarily by the Results of SO2 monitoring during 2008 are combustion of fossil fuels containing sulphur. It is a illustrated in Figure 2. Average SO2 concentrations colourless gas with a pungent odour. SO2 reacts in continue to remain at very low levels, averaging the atmosphere to form sulphur trioxide, sulphuric less than 11 g/m3 over the year at all stations, acid and particulate sulphates, which are major compared to the annual Metro Vancouver 3 contributors to acid rain. Sulphur oxides (SOX), Objective of 30 g/m . Average, 24-hour and 1- including SO2, can also combine with other air hour SO2 concentrations met Metro Vancouver contaminants to form particulates (PM2.5), which objectives at all times. may reduce visibility in the region. The highest readings continue to be recorded in Brief exposure to high concentrations of SO2 and the north-western part of the region, particularly its by-products can cause plant injury, and irritate close to the major point sources along Burrard Inlet the upper respiratory tract and aggravate existing and in the downtown core. Lower readings are cardiac and respiratory disease in humans. Long- recorded in the south-western and more eastern term exposure may increase the risk of developing regions of the LFV. chronic respiratory disease. Figure 3 illustrates the long-term regional SO2 Sources trends in the LFV. While year-to-year variations are commonly due to meteorological variability, long-

An oil refinery is the major industrial source of SO2 term changes in air quality are attributed to in this region with other significant contributors changes in emissions. Both the average and the th being marine vessels (mostly ocean-going short-term peak (99 percentile of the 1-hour vessels), motor vehicles and off-road engines. values) SO2 concentrations indicate an improving Local SO2 emissions are low relative to cities of trend. Emissions of SO2 declined during this time similar size because natural gas is used, rather due to reduced sulphur in on-road fuels, the than coal or oil, in almost all residential, shutdown of several refineries, and reduced commercial and industrial heating. emissions from the cement industry. In the most recent years however, trends for average sulphur dioxide concentrations show the decline has levelled off.

Metro Vancouver SO2 Objectives 1-hour: 450 g/m3 (174 ppb) 24-hour: 125 g/m3 (48 ppb) Annual: 30 g/m3 (12 ppb)

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 8 Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver 3 3 Annual Objective (30 g/m3) 24-Hour Objective (125 g/m ) 1-Hour Objective (450 g/m )

Burnaby-Capitol Hill

Burnaby North

Port Moody

Vancouver-Downtown

Burnaby-Kensington Park

Vancouver-Kitsilano

N. Vancouver-Mahon Park

N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows

Richmond-Airport

Abbotsford Airport

Pitt Meadows

Burnaby South Annual Average Abbotsford-Mill Lake Maximum 24-Hour Average Langley Maximum 1-Hour Average Richmond South

Chilliwack

0 40 80 120 160 200 240 280 320 360 400 440 480 concentration (g/m3)

Figure 2: Sulphur dioxide monitoring, 2008

70

60 Short-Term Peak ) 3 Average 50 g/m 

40

30 Concentration ( Concentration

2 20 SO

10

0 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Figure 3: Regional sulphur dioxide trends

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 9 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

Characteristics Monitoring Results

Of the various oxides of nitrogen (NOX), nitric oxide Figure 4 illustrates the results of NO2 monitoring (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are ambient air for 2008. quality concerns. Both are produced by the high temperature combustion of fossil fuels, and are All 1-hour NO2 levels continue to be below Metro collectively referred to as NOX. NO is predominant Vancouver objectives at all times. Average levels in combustion emissions, and rapidly undergoes also met Metro Vancouver’s objective at all chemical reactions in the atmosphere to produce stations except for Vancouver-Downtown. This NO2. station is located in a dense urban environment and very near to a busy street. NO2 is a reddish-brown gas with a pungent, irritating odour. It has been implicated in acute and As NO2 emissions are dominated by transportation chronic respiratory disease and in the creation of sources, the highest NO2 concentrations are acid rain. It also plays a major role in ozone measured in the more densely trafficked areas and formation, and as a precursor to secondary near busy roads. Lower concentrations are particulate formation (PM2.5), which may reduce observed where these influences are less visibility in the region. pronounced, such as the eastern parts of Metro Vancouver and in the FVRD. Sources Figure 5 illustrates the long-term regional NO2 Common NOX sources include boilers, building trends in the LFV. While year-to-year variations are heating systems and internal combustion engines. commonly due to meteorological variability, long- In the LFV, transportation sources account for term changes in air quality are attributed to approximately 75% of NOX emissions, with changes in emissions. Both the average and the th stationary and area sources contributing the short-term peak (99 percentile of the 1-hour remainder. values) NO2 concentrations indicate an improving trend. These improvements are largely due to improved vehicle emission standards and the AirCare program.

Metro Vancouver NO2 Objectives 1-hour: 200 g/m3 (107 ppb) Annual: 40 g/m3 (21 ppb)

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 10 Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver Annual Objective (40 g/m3) 1-Hour Objective (200 g/m3)

N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows Richmond-Airport Richmond South Vancouver-Kitsilano Vancouver-Downtown Burnaby-Kensington Park Coquitlam Pitt Meadows North Delta Port Moody Maple Ridge Burnaby South Burnaby Mountain Abbotsford-Mill Lake N. Vancouver-Mahon Park Surrey East Chilliwack Annual Average Abbotsford Airport Hope Maximum 1-Hour Average Langley

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 concentration (g/m3)

Figure 4: Nitrogen dioxide monitoring, 2008

120

100 Short-Term Peak

) Average 3 g/m

 80

60

40 Concentration ( Concentration 2 NO 20

0 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Figure 5: Regional nitrogen dioxide trends

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 11 Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Characteristics Monitoring Results

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless Figure 6 illustrates the results of CO monitoring for and tasteless gas produced by the incomplete 2008. Levels met all of Metro Vancouver’s combustion of fuels containing carbon. It has a objectives at all stations throughout the LFV. strong affinity for haemoglobin and thus reduces Higher concentrations generally occur close to the ability of blood to transport oxygen. Long-term major roads during peak traffic periods, especially exposure to low concentrations may cause during the fall and winter when light winds and adverse effects in people suffering from stable meteorological conditions are common. cardiovascular disease. Average levels remain low throughout the LFV 3 Sources (less than 500 g/m ) with lowest readings being recorded at sites away from major vehicle traffic CO is the most widely distributed and commonly routes. Spatially, CO concentrations have a similar occurring air pollutant. The principle source is pattern to NO2. motor vehicle emissions. In the LFV, over 90% comes from the transportation sector, including Figure 7 illustrates the long-term regional CO cars, trucks, buses and non-road vehicles. Other trends in the LFV. While year-to-year variations are sources include fuel combustion for building commonly due to meteorological variability, long- heating and commercial and industrial operations. term changes in air quality are attributed to changes in emissions. Both the average and the short-term peak (99th percentile of the 1-hour values) CO concentrations indicate an improving trend. In the LFV region, average levels have decreased by more than 50% since the late eighties. Declining CO concentrations are largely due to improved vehicle emission standards and the AirCare program.

Metro Vancouver CO Objectives 1-hour: 30,000 g/m3 (26.5 ppm) 8-hour: 10,000 g/m3 (8.8 ppm)

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 12 Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver 8-Hour Objective (10,000 g/m3) 1-Hour Objective (30,000 g/m3)

Richmond South N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows Vancouver-Kitsilano Maple Ridge Richmond-Airport Abbotsford-Mill Lake N. Vancouver-Mahon Park Vancouver-Downtown Port Moody Chilliwack Langley Pitt Meadows Coquitlam Burnaby-Kensington Park Annual Average Burnaby South Maximum 8-Hour Average Surrey East Maximum 1-Hour Average Horseshoe Bay Hope

0 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 30000 concentration (g/m3)

Figure 6: Carbon monoxide monitoring, 2008

5000

Short-Term Peak 4000 ) ) ) ) ) 3 3 3 3 3 Average g/m g/m g/m g/m g/m      3000

2000 CO Concentration ( Concentration CO CO Concentration ( Concentration CO CO Concentration ( Concentration CO CO Concentration ( Concentration CO CO Concentration ( Concentration CO 1000

0 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Figure 7: Regional carbon monoxide trends

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 13 Ozone (O3)

emissions in summer. The highest levels of ozone Characteristics occur in the eastern parts of Metro Vancouver and in the FVRD under these conditions.

Ozone (O3) is a reactive form of oxygen. It is the major pollutant formed when NOX and reactive While in recent years the Canada-wide Standard volatile organic compounds (VOC) chemically for ozone has been exceeded in Hope, in 2008 the react in the presence of sunlight. Because sunlight Standard was met in Hope and all other monitoring plays a major role in O3 production, maximum O3 locations in the LFV. However, Metro Vancouver’s levels generally occur in summer. 8-hour O3 objective was exceeded at several stations in Metro Vancouver in May 2008 and at While the naturally occurring O3 in the stratosphere stations in the FVRD in August 2008. The federal shields the earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation, 1-hour Acceptable Objective was also exceeded at at ground level it is a major environmental and one station in the eastern LFV in August 2008. health concern. O3 is a strong oxidant and can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and reduce lung Figure 10 illustrates the long-term regional O3 function. High concentrations can also increase the trends in the LFV. Regional average O3 levels susceptibility to respiratory disease and reduce appeared to decrease slightly during the early crop yields. 1990s, but have generally shown an upward trend since that time. Research shows that background Sources ozone concentrations are rising and are the main reason for the observed increase in average levels. Short-term peak (average calculated from O3 is termed a secondary pollutant because it is usually not emitted directly to the air, but is formed Canada-Wide Standard values) O3 concentrations from chemical reactions involving pollutants such are lower now than during the late 1980s. Although with some small year-to-year variability, peak as NOX and reactive VOC. O3 levels depend on the emission rates of these ‘precursor’ pollutants. ozone levels are mostly unchanged during the last ten to fifteen years, despite significant reductions NOX emissions are dominated by transportation sources, with about 75% of the emissions coming in ozone precursor pollutants over the same time from cars, trucks, marine vessels, and non-road period. On-going research is helping to suggest engines. The main contributors to VOC emissions the most appropriate strategies to improve ozone are natural sources (like trees and vegetation), levels. cars, light trucks, and solvent evaporation from industrial, commercial and consumer products. Metro Vancouver O3 Objectives 8-hour: 65 ppb (126 g/m3) Monitoring Results Canada-Wide Standard

Figure 8 illustrates the results of O3 monitoring for 8-hour: 65 ppb, by the year 2010 (based on the th 2008 against Metro Vancouver’s 8-hour objective 4 highest measurement annually, averaged and the Canada-Wide Standard. Figure 9 shows 1- over 3 consecutive years). hour O3 monitoring data, the 1-hour federal objectives and average levels. Federal Objectives 1-hour: 51 ppb (maximum desirable level) Hot, sunny and stagnant weather conditions favour 1-hour: 82 ppb (maximum acceptable level) the formation of ozone downwind of areas of major

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 14 Metro Vancouver 8-Hour Objective (65 ppb) AND Canada-Wide Standard (65 ppb)

Hope Chilliwack Port Moody North Delta Surrey East Burnaby Mountain Coquitlam Maple Ridge Langley Abbotsford Airport Pitt Meadows Richmond South Burnaby-Kensington Park Abbotsford-Mill Lake Burnaby South Richmond-Airport Vancouver-Kitsilano N. Vancouver-Mahon Park Canada-Wide Standard Value N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows Maximum 8-Hour Average Vancouver-Downtown

0 102030405060708090100 concentration (ppb)

Figure 8: 8-hour ozone monitoring, 2008

Federal 1-Hour Federal 1-Hour Desirable Objective (51 ppb) Acceptable Objective (82 ppb)

Chilliwack Hope Abbotsford Airport Abbotsford-Mill Lake Port Moody North Delta Richmond-Airport Richmond South Surrey East Langley Maple Ridge Burnaby Mountain Coquitlam Pitt Meadows Burnaby South Annual Average Burnaby-Kensington Park Vancouver-Kitsilano Maximum 1-Hour Average N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows N. Vancouver-Mahon Park Vancouver-Downtown

0 102030405060708090100110120 concentration (ppb)

Figure 9: Hourly ozone monitoring, 2008

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 15 70 Short-Term Peak 60 Average

50

40

30 Concentration (ppb) Concentration Concentration (ppb) Concentration Concentration (ppb) Concentration Concentration (ppb) Concentration 3 3 3 3 20 O O O O

10

0 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Figure 10: Regional ozone trends

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 16 Total Reduced Sulphur (TRS)

Characteristics Monitoring Results

Total reduced sulphur (TRS) compounds are a Figure 11 illustrates the results of TRS monitoring group of sulphurous compounds which occur for 2008. Average levels continue to be near or naturally from swamps, bogs and marshes, and below detectable limits. are created by industrial sources such as pulp and paper mills, petroleum refineries and composting During 2008, the Desirable Objective was facilities. exceeded for one hour at Burnaby-Burmount on February 21, 2008. The Desirable Objective was These compounds have offensive odours similar to exceeded for total of 35 hours at Port Moody, rotten eggs or rotten cabbage, and can cause eye during which the Acceptable Objective was also irritation and nausea in some people, at high exceeded for seven hours. These occurrences concentrations. were generally of a short duration. However, on November 17, 2008 and November 29-30, 2008 Sources the episodes of elevated TRS measurements lasted for six and nine hours respectively in the Most public complaints regarding these odours are early morning. Adverse weather conditions during associated with composting facilities and with the may have trapped pollutants close to the ground. petroleum refining and distribution industry located along Burrard Inlet. A few periodic inquiries also Metro Vancouver TRS Objectives occur as a result of natural emissions from such 1-hour (desirable objective): 5 ppb (7 g/m3) locations as Burns Bog in Delta. 1-hour (acceptable objective):10 ppb (14 g/m3)

25 1-hour Maximum

20 Average

15

1-hour Acceptable Objective 10 Concentration, ppb 1-hour Desirable Objective 5

0 Burnaby- Port Moody Burnaby- Burnaby-Capitol Burnaby-North Kensington Park Burmount Hill

Figure 11: Total reduced sulphur monitoring, 2008

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 17 Inhalable Particulate (PM10)

Characteristics Monitoring Results

The term ‘PM10’ has been given to airborne Figure 12 illustrates the results of PM10 monitoring particles with a diameter of 10 micrometres (m) or for 2008 at stations with continuous monitors. less. These are also known as inhalable Maximum 24-hour values ranged from 29-65 particulate. Because of their small size, these g/m3. All communities except Chilliwack met particles can be inhaled and deposited in the Metro Vancouver’s objective. The exceedance in lungs. Chilliwack occurred on December 21, 2008 during an episode of elevated PM10 levels. Cold, dry, Exposure to PM10 can chronically and acutely windy weather conditions throughout that period affect human health, particularly pulmonary may have caused elevated dust levels. function. PM10 can aggravate existing pulmonary and cardiovascular disease, increase symptoms in Average PM10 levels continue to be influenced by asthmatics and increase mortality. meteorological conditions and tend to be slightly elevated during the drier, warmer periods in High PM10 levels can also increase corrosion and summer and early fall (July to October) and lower soiling of materials, and may damage vegetation. during the cooler, wetter portions of the year. All The smaller particles can also contribute to sites met the annual PM10 objective with average degraded visibility. readings of 10 to 13 g/m3 in 2008.

Sources Figure 13 illustrates the long-term regional PM10 trends since continuous PM10 monitoring started in th PM10 is emitted from a variety of industrial, 1994. Variations in the short-term peak (99 agricultural, mobile and area sources. Another percentile of the 24-hour rolling average) values urban source is road dust, which is made up of are generally associated with short term episodes material that has been previously deposited on the brought on by very specific meteorological road surface, such as mud and dirt track-out, conditions. For example, during cold, dry periods leaves, vehicle exhaust, tire debris, brake linings, with strong outflow winds, wind blown dust storms and pavement wear. Traffic or wind may re- localized in the eastern LFV can occur. suspend the road dust into the air. Other PM10 contributions may come from natural sources, such In the LFV both average and short-term peak as wind blown soil, forest fires, ocean spray and levels are lower than when monitoring began in volcanic activity. 1994. However, the data also indicate that despite some year-to-year variability, peak PM10 levels have been relatively constant in recent years, with no apparent trend.

Metro Vancouver PM10 Objectives 24-hour: 50 g/m3 Annual: 20 g/m3

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 18 Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver Annual Objective 24-Hour Objective

Chilliwack

Burnaby South

Hope

Surrey East

Burnaby-Kensington Park

N. Vancouver-Mahon Park

Pitt Meadows

Vancouver-Kitsilano

Richmond-Airport

Langley Annual Average Abbotsford-Mill Lake Maximum 24-Hour Average Richmond South

Port Moody

0 1020304050607080 concentration (g/m3)

Figure 12: Inhalable particulate (PM10) monitoring, 2008

50

Short-Term Peak ) ) 40 3 3 Average g/m g/m  

30

20 Concentration ( Concentration ( 10 10 PM PM 10

0 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Figure 13: Regional inhalable particulate (PM10) trends

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 19 Non-Continuous Particulate (PM10)

Five stations operate non-continuous inhalable Figure 14 presents maximum 24-hour and particulate (PM10) sampling instruments. At these average PM10 values from the five stations sites, 24-hour (daily) particulate matter samples operating during 2008 with non-continuous are collected on filters every third or sixth day monitors. Measurements at White Rock and depending on the site. The sampling is Delta-English Bluff are not available for August scheduled as part of the National Air Pollution and September 2008. Consequently, the 2008 Surveillance (NAPS) program. Samples are later results are considered an incomplete year and weighed in the laboratory to determine the may not fully represent air quality conditions. The particulate concentrations. data are included in Figure 14 for information. There were no exceedances of Metro Vancouver’s PM10 objectives.

80

70 24-hour Maximum Annual Average ) ) ) ) ) 60 3 3 3 3 3 Metro Vancouver 24-Hour Objective g/m g/m g/m g/m g/m      50

40

30

Metro Vancouver Annual Objective concentration ( concentration ( concentration ( concentration ( concentration ( 20

10

0 White Rock * Delta-English Port Moody Burnaby South Abbotsford Bluff * Airport

Figure 14: Non-continuous inhalable particulate (PM10) sampling, 2008 * Incomplete year of data from White Rock and Delta-English Bluff

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 20 Fine Particulate (PM2.5)

Characteristics Average PM2.5 levels generally increase The term 'PM2.5' has been given to airborne throughout the summer and peak in September to particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres (m) October. Lowest average concentrations are or less (fine particulate). Because of their very measured in winter. All sites met the annual PM2.5 small size, these particles can penetrate into the objective in 2008 with average readings of 4 to 5 3 finer structures of the lungs. As with inhalable g/m . particulate (PM10), exposure to fine particulate (PM2.5) can chronically and acutely affect human Maximum 24-hour averages ranged from 17 to 3 health, aggravate pulmonary or cardiovascular 22 g/m with all communities meeting Metro disease, increase symptoms in asthmatics and Vancouver’s objective. No exceedances of the 24- increase mortality. PM2.5 is also effective at hour PM2.5 objective occurred. scattering and absorbing visible light. It is in this role that PM2.5 contributes to the development of Two stations in the network (Burnaby South and regional haze and impaired visibility. Abbotsford Airport) provide very detailed PM2.5 monitoring as part of the federal National Air Sources Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) program. From 24- hour filter samples, various compounds that form PM2.5 are identified later in a federal laboratory. A PM2.5 emissions are dominated by transportation, space heating and industrial sources. Within the detailed analysis is also carried out on the filter samples providing non-continuous measurements LFV, PM2.5 emissions represent approximately of PM2.5 in Port Moody (see next section). These one-half of the PM10 emissions, a value typical of other North American urban environments. detailed data are not shown in this report.

Scientific investigations in the LFV indicate that a Figure 16 illustrates the long-term regional PM2.5 trends in the LFV. While year-to-year variations are considerable proportion of ambient PM2.5 is also commonly due to meteorological variability, long- formed by reactions of NOX and SO2 with ammonia term changes in air quality are attributed to in the air. PM2.5 produced in this manner is termed changes in emissions. Based upon the limited data secondary PM2.5 and accounts for a significant collected to date it is difficult to discern a long-term percentage of PM2.5 in summer. Therefore, trend. emissions of precursor gases of secondary PM2.5 are also important sources in the region. Metro Vancouver PM2.5 Objectives 24-hour: 25 g/m3 Monitoring Results Annual: 12 g/m3

Figure 15 presents average, maximum 24-hour Canada-Wide Standard and Canada-Wide Standard values for PM2.5 from 24-hour: 30 g/m3, by the year 2010 (based on the twelve stations operating during 2008 with th continuous monitors. Insufficient data to calculate the 98 percentile measurement annually, the Canada-Wide Standard for 2008 were averaged over 3 consecutive years). collected at Horseshoe Bay and Port Moody. All other stations met the PM2.5 Canada-Wide Standard, with values ranging from 12 to 16 g/m3.

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 21

Metro Vancouver Metro Vancouver Canada-Wide Annual Objective 24-Hour Objective Standard

Hope

Langley

Chilliwack

N. Vancouver-2nd Narrows

Port Moody

Pitt Meadows

Burnaby-Kensington Park

Burnaby South

Vancouver-Kitsilano

Abbotsford Airport Canada-Wide Standard Value Annual Average Richmond-Airport Maximum 24-Hour Average

Horseshoe Bay

0 102030405060 concentration (g/m3)

Figure 15: Fine particulate (PM2.5) monitoring, 2008

20 Short-Term Peak Average ) 3 15 g/m 

10 Concentration (

2.5 5 PM

0 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Figure 16: Regional fine particulate (PM2.5) trends

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 22 Non-Continuous Particulate (PM2.5)

Five stations operate non-continuous fine Measurements at White Rock and Delta-English particulate (PM2.5) sampling instruments. At Bluff are not available for August and September these sites, 24-hour (daily) particulate matter 2008. Consequently, the 2008 results are samples are collected on filters every third or considered an incomplete year and may not fully sixth day depending on the site. The sampling is represent air quality conditions. The data are scheduled as part of the National Air Pollution included in Figure 14 for information. There were Surveillance (NAPS) program. Samples are later no exceedances of Metro Vancouver’s PM2.5 weighed in the laboratory to determine the objectives. particulate concentrations.

Figure 17 presents maximum 24-hour and average PM2.5 values from the five stations with non-continuous monitors that operated in 2008.

30

Metro Vancouver 24-Hour Objective ) ) ) ) ) ) 24-hour Maximum 3 3 3 3 3 3 20 Annual Average g/m g/m g/m g/m g/m g/m      

Metro Vancouver Annual Objective

10 concentration ( concentration ( concentration ( ( concentration ( concentration (

0 White Rock * Delta-English Port Moody Burnaby South Abbotsford Bluff * Airport

Figure 17: Non-continuous particulate (PM2.5) monitoring, 2008 * Incomplete year of data from White Rock and Delta-English Bluff

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 23 Figure 18 shows the improvements made in PM2.5 concentrations at Port Moody over the last twenty years.

50

Short-Term Peak Average )

3 40 g/m 

30

20 Concentration ( 2.5

PM 10

0 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Figure 18: Fine particulate (PM2.5) trends at Port Moody

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 24 Ammonia (NH3)

Characteristics Monitoring Results

Ammonia (NH3) can contribute to the formation of Continuous measurements of ammonia are made fine particles when chemical reactions occur at four sites within the monitoring network. between ammonia and other gases, including Results of 1-hour maximum, 24-hour maximum sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). and average ammonia monitoring during 2008 The resulting ammonium nitrate and ammonium are presented in Figure 19. sulphate particles are efficient at scattering light and can impair visibility with a white haze.

Sources

The 2005 Metro Vancouver emission inventory indicated that agriculture contributes the largest amount of ammonia in the LFV. About 76% of all ammonia emissions come from cattle, pig, and poultry housing, manure landspreading and storage, and fertilizer application.

900

800 1-hour Maximum 24-hour Maximum 700 Average 600

500

400

300 concentration (ppb) concentration (ppb) concentration (ppb) concentration (ppb) concentration (ppb) concentration (ppb) concentration (ppb) 200

100

0 Chilliwack Langley Abbotsford-Mill Lake Abbotsford Airport

Figure 19: Ammonia monitoring, 2008

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 25 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)

Monitoring Results Characteristics In cooperation with the federal National Air The gaseous VOC present in the air can originate Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) program, canister from direct emissions and from volatilization (i.e. sampling of VOC has been conducted at several changing into the gas phase) of substances in the sites in the LFV since 1988. 24-hour (daily) liquid or solid phase. sampling is conducted every third or sixth day on a national schedule. Canisters are then sent to the Locally, some VOC are part of the contaminants federal laboratory in Ottawa for analysis of up to found in urban smog. They are also the precursors 177 VOC. of other contaminants present in smog such as ozone and fine particulates. VOC may also Figure 20 shows the maximum 24-hour (daily) total contribute to climate change and to the depletion VOC (TVOC) and average TVOC from all VOC of the stratospheric ozone layer. Other VOC (e.g. monitoring stations in 2008. The data indicates that benzene) can pose a human health risk. highest average VOC levels are measured at stations close to specific industrial sources near Sources Burrard Inlet. The highest 24-hour concentration was observed at Burnaby-North on August 16, Sources of VOC in Metro Vancouver include, but 2008. are not limited to emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels, industrial and residential solvents and Figure 21 presents the long-term trends in total paints, vegetation, agricultural activities, petroleum VOC concentrations in the main source area. Both refineries, fuel-refilling facilities, the burning of annual average and short-term peak VOC wood and other vegetative materials, and large concentrations have decreased in the last decade. industrial facilities. However, in recent years concentrations have remained relatively constant. Objectives In addition to the canister sampling, continuous

measurements of total hydrocarbons (THC) are Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act made at two stations, Burnaby North (T24) and (CEPA), some VOC are included in the Toxic Burnaby-Burmount (T22), both of which are Substance List. Emissions of some VOC are adjacent to petroleum industry facilities (results not limited by permits and industry-specific regulations shown). within Metro Vancouver.

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 26 Burnaby North

Port Moody

Burnaby-Burmount

N.Vancouver-2nd Narrows

Richmond-Airport

Burnaby South

Vancouver-Downtown

Abbotsford-Airport Maximum Daily Total VOC

Average Total VOC Richmond South

Chilliwack

0 500 1000 1500 concentration (g/m3)

Figure 20: Total VOC monitoring, 2008

450

400 Short-Term Peak ) 3 350 Average g/m  300

250

200

150

100 VOC Concentration ( VOC Concentration 50

0 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Figure 21: Regional source area trends for total VOC

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 27 Section D – Visibility Monitoring

Characteristics of ammonia and PM2.5, are used to assess visibility and haze. In addition, continuous Visibility impairment is caused by the extinction measurements of light scattering are made using of light between an object and the eye of an integrating nephelometers at four air quality observer. Light extinction occurs by the stations in the LFV. The nephelometers are scattering and absorption of light by both equipped with PM2.5 inlets and continuously particles and gases in the air. At certain pollutant measure the light scattering by both particles and levels and weather conditions visibility can be gases in the atmosphere. degraded in the LFV, causing local mountains to become partially obscured in haze. This haze A total of seven automated digital cameras are may have different characteristics depending on also operated throughout the LFV to record views the location. In much of Metro Vancouver, along specific lines-of-sight with recognizable especially the more urbanized areas to the west, topographical features at known distances. When the haze can have a brownish appearance due to these photographs are examined alongside the emissions of NOX from transportation sources. pollutant measurements, visual range can be related to the concentrations of various PM2.5 Further east in the LFV, impaired visibility is often particles and the reasons for visibility degradation caused by a white haze. Studies conducted in and the contributing sources can be determined. the LFV (i.e. REVEAL – REgional Visibility Experimental Assessment in the Lower Fraser New visibility monitoring will be pursued as part Valley) have shown that average light extinction of Metro Vancouver’s participation in the BC is attributed to scattering by particles (65%), Visibility Coordinating Committee, which is absorption by particles (17%) and to light working cooperatively to develop and implement scattering and absorption due to gases (18%). a pilot visibility improvement strategy for the LFV. These studies showed that in the eastern parts of the LFV, the major reason for visibility impairment was due to the scattering and absorption of light by PM2.5 in the atmosphere. In addition, it was determined that PM2.5 was dominated by the presence of ammonium sulphate, ammonium nitrate and carbon.

Monitoring Programs

In order to assess visibility impairment in the LFV, Metro Vancouver, the FVRD and Environment Canada have jointly established monitoring programs to gather data on visibility impairment.

Monitoring that has already been described in this report, including continuous measurements

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 28 Section E – Meteorological Measurements

Characteristics

Meteorology can be a major influence on day-to- understanding the many factors responsible for day air quality levels and visibility. Factors which visibility degradation. affect air pollutant concentrations include wind, temperature, sunshine, precipitation, atmospheric These meteorological data are also made available stability and humidity. Meteorological to Environment Canada to aid weather and air measurements are also used to assist in quality forecasting in the region. forecasting air quality. Regional Results Monitoring Program Figure 22 shows the total precipitation measured Various meteorological elements are monitored as at each monitoring station in 2008. Higher part of the LFV air quality monitoring network (see precipitation totals are experienced nearer to the Table 1): local mountains.

 Wind speed and direction provides real-time Figure 23 shows the temperature range information on pollutant transport and dispersion experienced throughout the year at each station. and is used to assess the relationships between The average temperature is indicated by the point pollutant sources and measurements at air at which the high (red) and low (blue) temperature quality monitoring stations. bars meet.

 Temperature and solar radiation measurements Figures 24 and 25 summarize the monthly 2008 help determine the potential for ozone formation temperature and precipitation data collected in the during the summer. Ozone concentrations are Lower Fraser Valley at Metro Vancouver operated dependant on solar radiation (sunshine) to cause stations. The results are shown with data from photochemical reactions among air pollutants. Environment Canada. The historical normals and Higher temperatures can speed these reactions 2008 airport specific data in these two figures were and increase concentrations. Temperature retrieved from the Environment Canada database measurements can also indicate the potential for (http://www.climate.weatheroffice.gc.ca/Welcome_ a temperature inversion, which can confine e.html). pollution close to the ground. The monthly minimum, average and maximum  Precipitation can wash pollutants out of the temperatures for each station (not individually atmosphere and helps to explain differences in identified) are shown and provide an indication of air quality from one part of the region to another. the average range of temperatures experienced In addition these data are used by Metro across the region. Metro Vancouver maximum and Vancouver’s Sewerage and Drainage and minimum values represent the highest and lowest Watershed Management functions. values of each month. Environment Canada maximum and minimum data are calculated  Relative humidity is an important factor in the average values for each month. formation and growth of visibility reducing particles, and its measurement is a key to

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 29 Coquitlam Hope Port Moody Burnaby Mountain Pitt Meadows Maple Ridge Burnaby North N. Vancouver-Mahon Park Horseshoe Bay Chilliwack Abbotsford-Mill Lake North Delta Langley Abbotsford Airport Burnaby South Vancouver-Kitsilano Surrey East Richmond-Airport Richmond South Vancouver-Downtown

0 500 1000 1500 2000 total precipitation (mm)

Figure 22: Total Precipitation monitoring, 2008

Lowest hourly temperature Average temperature Highest hourly temperature

Chilliwack Hope Airport Abbotsford-Mill Lake Maple Ridge Langley Pitt Meadows North Delta Abbotsford Airport Coquitlam Burnaby-Burmount Vancouver-Kitsilano Surrey East Port Moody N. Vancouver-Mahon Park Burnaby South Burnaby-Kensington Park Burnaby North Burnaby Mountain Richmond South Burnaby-Capito l Hill Vancouver Air port Horseshoe Bay

-20-100 10203040 Temperature (degrees Celsius) Figure 23: Temperature monitoring, 2008

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 30 35

30

25

20

15

10

5

0 Temperature (degrees C) Temperature (degrees C)

-5 Monthly Minimum Monthly Maximum Monthly Average Vancouver airport normals (1971-2000) -10 Abbotsford airport normals (1971-2000) Vancouver airport 2008 Airport data obtained from Environment Canada data archive: Abbotsford airport 2008 -15 http://www.climate.weatheroffice.gc.ca/Welcome_e.html Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Figure 24: Monthly temperature, 2008 – recorded at Metro Vancouver and Environment Canada operated stations

300 Metro Vancouver stations Vancouver airport normals (1971-2000) 250 Vancouver airport 2008 Abbotsford airport normals (1971-2000) Abbotsford airport 2008 ) ) ) 200

150 Precipitation (mm Precipitation Precipitation (mm Precipitation Precipitation (mm Precipitation 100

50

0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Figure 25: Monthly precipitation, 2008 – recorded at Metro Vancouver and Environment Canada operated stations

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 31 Section F – Special Monitoring Initiatives

Special air quality monitoring initiatives In 2009 MAMU will also be deployed at several complement the monitoring undertaken through locations in Surrey to assess the adequacy of the network of permanent and long-term stations. existing stations in the Surrey area. There are These special initiatives typically characterize air currently monitoring stations in the Clayton area quality at finer spatial scales, such as at the of Surrey and in North Delta. neighbourhood level, investigate problem areas, and survey potential permanent locations.

A Mobile Air Monitoring Unit (MAMU), capable of monitoring gaseous and particulate pollutants, is utilized throughout the year and throughout the region to conduct special air quality studies. In addition, two smaller shelters are outfitted with air quality monitoring instruments when fewer measurements are required.

During 2008, MAMU was deployed at the Canada/U.S. border near the Douglas (Peace Arch) border crossing. The project was conducted in support of an anti-idling system installed at this crossing. Metro Vancouver was a partner in the BC Government’s ‘Greening the Border’ initiative and used data collected by MAMU before and after the system was launched to monitor changes in air quality due to the instigated anti-idling measures.

Three additional special studies were also initiated in New Westminster, Surrey and the Burrard Inlet areas of Vancouver, Burnaby and North Vancouver in 2008. The Burrard Inlet Area Local Air Quality Study (BIALAQS) started in 2008. This two year study In New Westminster a program to help evaluate is investigating the air quality in the Burrard Inlet the impact of the truck route on air quality was area, in which many sources operate. Monitoring initiated. Two data collection locations, a equipment was set up at several locations in the community location in Sapperton and a road-side area and is scheduled to run until June 2010. location near Front Street, in which monitoring equipment will be set up were identified. In addition, MAMU will be used to make measurements at the City Hall in New Westminster .

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 32 Section G – Monitoring Network Operations

Network History Monitoring Network Partners

Air monitoring in the region began in 1949, when Several government and industry partners the City of Vancouver established a dustfall contribute to the on-going management and monitoring network. Monitoring for total suspended operation of the Lower Fraser Valley Air Quality particulate was added in later years. Following the Monitoring Network. The government partners Pollution Control Act (1967), provincial air quality include: programs initiated monitoring of dustfall and total suspended particulate in other areas of the region. Fraser Valley Regional District Environment Canada In 1972, provincial and municipal air quality BC Ministry of Environment responsibilities were transferred to Metro Vancouver, including operation of air quality In addition: monitoring programs. In 1998, a Memorandum of Understanding established cooperative The Vancouver International Airport Authority management of the monitoring network by both provides partial funding for the Vancouver Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Regional International Airport station (T31). District. Chevron Canada Ltd. provides funding for the Continuous monitoring of gaseous pollutants began Burnaby North (T24) and Capitol Hill (T23) in 1972 under the auspices of the federal National stations. Air Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) program. Several new stations were established to measure SO2, O3, BC Hydro provides funding for three network CO, NOX and VOC. Over the years, stations and stations, including Port Moody (T9), Burnaby equipment have been added or removed in Mountain (T14) and Surrey East (T15). response to changing air quality management priorities. Mobile Air Monitoring Units provide Kinder Morgan Canada provides funding for the added flexibility to carry out measurements at Burnaby-Burmount (T22) station. many locations. Some monitoring is part of co- operative programs with industry and other Metro Vancouver continues to operate and governments. maintain the monitoring stations and equipment, and to collect real-time data from the regional monitoring network on behalf of all partners.

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 33 Federal Government instruments either automatically or upon demand. Automatic ‘zero/span’ checks are conducted by the Metro Vancouver co-operates with the federal computer on every fourth day. government by providing field services for three major nation-wide sampling programs under the Portable calibration equipment is used to evaluate National Air Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) equipment performance. Automated analyzers are program. subject to a performance audit and multi-point calibration every fourth month. In addition, all other  Canister sampling of VOC has been conducted in instruments and samplers in the network are the LFV since 1988. The federal government subjected to annual and/or biannual calibrations. supplies the canisters and other sampling All reference materials and quality control apparatus with Metro Vancouver staff providing procedures meet or exceed Environment Canada field exchange of canisters, calibrations and and/or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency routine maintenance of equipment. Canisters are requirements. then forwarded to the federal laboratory in Ottawa, for analysis of up to 177 VOC. Data Base

 A second program collects dichotomous Data from continuous analyzers are transmitted particulate samples at three sites. This long-term once-a-minute to a central computer using program separates PM10 samples into two size dedicated telephone lines, radio links or the fractions: 10 to 2.5 m (coarse), and under 2.5 internet. The computer calculates hourly averages m (fine). These samples are collected every for each analyzer, from the one minute data, for third or sixth day, and returned to Ottawa for long-term data storage. For a measurement to be detailed chemical analysis. considered valid and be stored for further use, at least 75% of the relevant data must be available.  In 2003 a PM2.5 speciation sampling program was Calibration data is also stored on the computer. initiated. Particulate speciation samplers were added to the Burnaby South and Abbotsford Airport stations. These samplers collect PM2.5 samples every third day in specially designed cartridges which incorporate a series of filters and denuders. The samples are then forwarded to the federal laboratory in Ottawa where they are analyzed for various particulate species.

Quality Assurance and Control

Air quality monitoring data is constantly reviewed and validated. Technicians perform weekly inspections and routine maintenance of the monitoring equipment and stations. In addition, instrument technicians perform major repairs to any instrument in the network, as required. Through telemetry and the central computer, technicians can check remotely on instruments prior to site visits. This system also allows for calibration of the

2008 Air Quality Report for the Lower Fraser Valley Page 34

Questions and comments concerning the information presented in this report can be addressed to:

Metro Vancouver Policy & Planning Department Air Quality Policy & Management Division 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, B.C. V5H 4G8 Telephone: (604) 451-6039 Fax: (604) 436-6701 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.metrovancouver.org