Ktunaxa and Sinixt Territory / Nelson, B.C. – As British Columbia faces yet another summer of smoky skies and air quality alerts, the BC Green Party is calling for urgent action to protect the health of British Columbians from the escalating threat of wildfire smoke.
“Every British Columbian deserves to breathe clean air,” said Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the BC Greens. “Air quality is essential for our health and well-being. Poor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems and cognitive impairments, which can affect our daily performance and quality of life”.
Wildfire smoke, exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought and extreme heat due to climate change, has become a common feature of summers in B.C. This year, many communities across the province are grappling with smoky skies and air quality alerts. The BC Greens emphasize that there is no safe level of wildfire smoke exposure, and even low concentrations can pose significant health risks.
Nicole Charlwood, BC. Greens MLA candidate for Kootenay Central echoed these concerns, stating, “The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires are a direct consequence of climate change and poor forestry practices. We must take decisive action to protect our communities and ensure that everyone has access to clean air, especially during wildfire events.”
To address these challenges, the BC Greens propose immediate adoption of the Clean Air Act, which the BC Green Caucus introduced in April. It aims to protect the health of British Columbians by:
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Monitoring and regulating air quality in both indoor and outdoor environments, particularly in places frequented by vulnerable groups such as children, students, and the elderly.
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Investing in clean air centers across the province, prioritizing communities with the highest susceptibility, including pregnant individuals, older community members, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
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Providing funding for portable air cleaners with HEPA filters to ensure clean air in homes during wildfire smoke events.
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Retrofitting existing buildings such as assisted care facilities, child care centers, and schools with air filters and mandating that new buildings meet safe air filtration and air conditioning standards.
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Expanding investments in fuel management and supporting prescribed and cultural burning to reduce wildfire intensity.
“We need the provincial government to take air quality and the impacts of air pollution seriously,” Furstenau added. “This legislation is an important step towards protecting the health of British Columbians and ensuring that our communities are prepared and equipped during wildfire smoke events.”
The proposed measures will require an initial investment of $125 million in the first year and $65 million on an ongoing basis, covering the costs of operating clean air centers, supplying in-home HVAC filters, and retrofitting buildings.
The BC Greens believe that these investments are crucial for the long-term health and safety of British Columbians. As wildfire seasons become more severe, it is imperative to prioritize clean air and take proactive steps to mitigate the impacts of air pollution.
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Media contact:
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