Cowichan Valley Voted Clean Air Champion for 2017

Duncan, BC – The poor air quality the Cowichan Valley is experiencing this week is unique for the summer months, but not for the winter. Air quality can be poor during the winter because of fine particulate matter primarily from open burning and woodstove use. However, there is good news to share about progress being made.

The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) and partners have been voted as Clean Air Champion for 2017 by the BC Lung Association. The BC Lung Association’s Air Quality and Health Steering Committee annually awards the title of Clean Air Champion to a deserving recipient who has made a significant contribution to the field of air quality. As Clean Air Champion, the Cowichan Valley’s work is featured in the 2017 State of the Air Report.

“The air shed knows no jurisdictional boundaries,” says Chair Jon Lefebure. “Collaboration is important as we truly do share the air we breathe. The award of Clean Air Champion recognizes the efforts of a dedicated group of residents and organizations working together for healthier communities.”

For several years, the Cowichan Valley has had exceedances of the national fine particulate matter (PM2.5) standards based on measurements at the Duncan Cairnsmore and Deykin Avenue sites. Everyone can be part of the solution by making informed decisions in their daily lives to lower the exposure of our communities to air pollution.

In response to growing air quality concerns, the CVRD and partnering organizations have supported healthier communities, through initiatives such as developing Cowichan's Regional Airshed Protection Strategy, forming the collaborative roundtable and exploring alternatives to older wood burning appliances and open burning.

For more information on the air quality problem, airshed protection, current conditions and best practices, please visit: www.cvrd.bc.ca/air.