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 Every day the average adult breathes between 15,000 to 20,000 litres of air. Both indoor and outdoor air contains chemical and biological gases, some of which are harmful to us. These harmful pollutants include ground level ozone, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphates, nitrates, particulate matter and toxic metals.
Air pollution knows no boundaries; it affects urban, suburban and rural areas at all times of the year. Seniors, children and those with certain health conditions are the most susceptible to the effects of poor air quality. People who are physically active outdoors are also at a greater risk. Although some pollutants are a result of naturally occurring activities, most are a result of human activities such as from coal-burning power plants, industries and vehicle emissions.
As part of its air quality efforts, Pickering has:
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Adopted greenhouse gas reduction targets and action plans through the Partners for Climate Protection program
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Participated in Pollution Probe?s Clean Air Commute and Energy Conservation Week
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Undertook an Urban Forest Study and are developing a strategy
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Adopted an Idling of Vehicles By-law (6297/04)
- Invested in alternative fuel options for the City?s fleet and purchased eight hybrid-electric vehicles as well as a street sweeper certified by the Air Quality Management District (AQMD) Rule 1186
- Join the GTA Clean Air Council and the Clean Air Partnership in 2002
In approving new development, the City emphasizes and incorporates designs for enhanced pedestrian connections and accessibility, cycling facilities and transit access, to reduce the reliance on the private automobile, since automobile use reduces air quality.
- Turn off your car engine instead of idling it
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Avoid using drive-throughs
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Keep your vehicle tuned up and tires properly inflated
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Join a carpool or use public transportation to get to work and participate in Pollution Probe's Clean Air Commute
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Walk or cycle instead of using your car
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Telecommute instead of commuting to work
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When driving, plan your routes for efficiency and combine trips whenever possible
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Take advantage of one or more of the Air Quality programs available through Summerhill Impact, such as:
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Appliance Switches
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Car Heaven
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Keep Cool
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Mow Down Pollution
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Retire Your Ride
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Switch Out
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Switch the ?Stat
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Avoid emissions from idling: if you?re stopped for more than 60 seconds ? except in traffic ? turn off the engine
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If there is a line up at the drive-through of your favourite coffee shop or restaurant, do not add to the idling problem. Park your vehicle, stretch your legs and walk in to place your order
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Avoid using a remote car starter; this device encourages you to leave your vehicle idling longer than it needs to
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Spread the anti-idling message to your family, friends and co-workers
Use the Idle Calculator to find out how much CO2 you generate while idling.
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