In another in a series of posts leading up to the public forum on the Sustainable Kamloops plan, here is my attempt to meaningfully summarize the air quality information package that has been created to support the planning process. I am also posting the full document in a viewer below so that folks can see the whole document, summarize it for yourselves, and assess my summary.
Summary - Our air quality in Kamloops is generally good when compared to provincial and national standards and when compared to other BC communities. However, when it comes to a high profile component of air pollution (smoke or PM 2.5), experts say that there are no safe levels and any reduction in this component will lead to an increase in the health of the community. Additionally, long terms effects from consistent exposure to air pollution has ten times more impact than short term impacts. Children, the elderly, and people with existing repiratory and cardiac issues are more at risk from air pollution.
Good air quality is a component in fostering a strong business community and economy.
The primary goal is to develop an airshed management plan by 2012. The development of this plan would involve setting air quality targets, soliciting further public input and engagement, gathering and assessing air quality data, and examining the measures government, businesses, organizations and citizens could take to improve air quality.
Full Document:
Sustainable Kamloops Plan - Air Quality Info Package
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