Environmental Quality Branch

B.C. Air Action Plan

The government of British Columbia is celebrating Clean Air Day with the release of the Air Action Plan, which allocates $28.5 million over three years to improve and enhance air quality across the province and protect British Columbians' health.

The plan outlines 28 major actions that will address air pollution from all sources. Some of the actions have already been started, and all are expected to be in place by 2009.

Take Action: click here to pledge to be idle free!

The Idle-Free Ambassador Project is a new community-based initiative launched by the Ministry of Environment in May 2008. The ambassadors, who represent B.C.’s new Youth Climate Leadership Alliance, are promoting idle reduction through outreach campaigns across the province.

Stop smoking out your neighbours! Take part in the Provincial Wood Stove Exchange Program.

This program is designed to encourage British Columbians to change out their older smoky wood stoves for low-emission appliances including new CSA/EPA-certified clean-burning wood stoves.

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a new, national health initiative that provides real-time air quality readings and related health messages. People can make more informed choices about limiting their exposure to poor air quality and reducing their risk for health problems.

As a lead partner in launching this program, the Ministry of Environment reports the AQHI in 14 B.C. communities, representing about 80% of British Columbians.

Clean Air Day is on the first Wednesday in June, every year. Visit the Clean Air Day site for more information. Here's how you can use clean air habits all year long.

The latest clean-air poster and A Teacher's Guide to Air Quality are based on the Clean Air Crusaders: Captain Air, the Green Protector and the Winged Wonder. Take a look at the Clean Air Day site to find out more.

Captain Air

A "clean air" day and a "poor air" day at
Okanagan Lake Bridge, British Columbia.