Taking Action for Cleaner Air
There are
plenty of actions we can all take for cleaner air, and other things
we should do when an air quality alert is imminent or underway.
On Smog
Alert Days:
- Children,
the elderly and people with chronic heart and lung problems
should stay inside on days when a smog alert is underway.
- Any alternate
transportation method will help during smog days. In fact, public
transit, walking, biking or skating to run errands or to work
will help anytime!
- Remember
that exercise will increase the amount of smog pollutants you
inhale. Check on air quality before an outdoor workout.
Little Things
Make a Big Difference
It may be one
small lifestyle change or a major decision, but every small choice
we make to limit the emissions that cause air pollution will make
a difference for cleaner air.
- Decrease
the use of air conditioning by planting plenty of trees, using
a few ceiling fans and ensuring the house is well insulated.
- Remember
that one busload of passengers take 40 vehicles off the road
during rush hour. It also saves 70,000 litres of fuel and avoids
9 tonnes of air pollutants a year!
- Consider
a more fuel efficient car when making you next purchase.
- Remember
there can be pollution from lawn mowers, snowblowers and outboard
motors. Look for low-emission engines.
- A carpool
to work or children's activities means one less car on the road
and fewer emissions.
- Don't
idle that engine! Turn it off, even if it is only for a few
minutes.
- Try walking,
biking or in-line skating for an errand or to work.
- Choose
cleaner fuels. There are a number of alternatives now on the
market.
- Consider
a no-car week at your house. How many kilometres can the family
go using alternatives to the car?
- Checking
the emissions system on your vehicle to ensure it is in top
working order can help.
- Making
choices for cleaner fleet operations at the office can reduce
emissions.
- Wood
stoves are available with anti-pollution devices. Choose one
of these if you are buying a new wood stove.
- Remember
we can all make choices for clean air!
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