BORDER AIR QUALITY STRATEGY
namiaining Mir quality in a
Transboundary Air Basin:
Georgia Basin-Puget Sound
CANADA-UNITED SWES AIR QUALITY AGREEMENT
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Library and Archives Canada Cataloguing in Publication
Maintaining air quality in a transboundary air basin [electronic
resource] : Georgia Basin-Puget Sound 2005 report: a pilot project under
the Canada-United States Border Air Quality Strategy.
Prepared by Environment Canada and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Issued also in French under title: Maintien de la qualite de 1'air dans
un bassin atmospherique transfrontalier, Bassin de Georgie et Puget Sound.
Electronic monograph in HTML format.
Mode of access: World Wide Web.
ISBN 0-662-41145-5
Cat. no.: En4-53/2005E-HTML
1. Georgia Basin/ Puget Sound International Airshed Strategy. 2. Air
quality managementGeorgia Basin (B.C. and Wash.). 3. Air quality
managementWashington (State)Puget Sound Region. 4. Transboundary
pollution-Government policy-Georgia Basin (B.C. and Wash.). 5. Transboundary pollution-
Government policyWashington (State)--Puget Sound Region. 6. AirPollutionGeorgia Basin
(B.C. and Wash.). 7. AirPollutionWashington (State)Puget Sound Region. 8. AirPollution--
British Columbia. I. Canada. Environment Canada II. United States. Environmental Protection
Agency
TD883.148.N7M34 2005 363.739'26'097113 C2005-980200-6
To Obtain Additional Information, Please Contact:
Environment Canada U.S. Environmental Protection AgencyPacific
Yukon Region Region 10
401 Burrard Street 1200 Sixth Avenue
Vancouver, BC Seattle, WA 98101
V6C 3S5
www.pyr.ec.gc.ca www. epa. gov/r 1 Oearth
Copies of this report can be obtained from:
www.ee. gc.ca/cleanair-airpur/Home-WS8C3F7D55-l_En.htm
or
www. epa. gov/airmarkets/usca
U.S. EPA Publication 910-R-05-900
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MAINTAINING AIR QUALITY IN A TRANSBOUNDARY
AIR BASIN: GEORGIA BASIN-PUGET SOUND
2005 REPORT
A PILOT PROJECT UNDER THE
CANADA-UNITED STATES BORDER AIR QUALITY
STRATEGY
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 6
Overview 6
Context 6
Past Collaboration 8
The GB-PS International Airshed Strategy 8
Organization and Members 9
Early Actions 10
Initiatives 11
Air Quality in the Airshed 12
Emission Sources and Forecasts 12
Puget Sound 13
Georgia Basin (LFV) 13
Future Directions 14
Conclusions 14
Development of the International Airshed Strategy 15
Membership and Structure 15
Timeline 16
Activities 17
Early Actions 18
Initiatives 20
Air Quality Issues and Challenges 21
Air Quality Issues and Challenges in the GB-PS 21
Airshed Characterization 21
What Determines Air Quality? 22
Emissions 22
Ambient Air Quality 23
Social and Economic Context 24
Limits of Predictive Air Modeling 25
Significance of Transboundary Transport 25
Implications 25
Human Health 27
Introduction 27
Background 28
Health Research 29
Conclusion and Recommendations 34
Georgia Basin-Puget Sound Voluntary Initiatives 35
Introduction 35
Summary of Initiatives 35
Marine Vessel and Port Emissions Reduction Initiative 35
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Clean Vehicles and Fuels Initiative 37
Notification of Major New Sources Initiative 38
Transboundary Science and Data Initiative 39
Communications and Outreach Initiative 40
Agriculture Industry Emission Reductions Initiative 41
Residential Wood Heating Emission Reductions Initiative 42
Future Directions 44
Context 44
Future Directions 44
Continued Multi-agency Information Sharing 44
Collaborative Projects 45
Joint Policy Efforts 46
Scientific Collaborative Opportunities 47
Appendix 1 -_Georgia Basin-Puget Sound International Airshed Strategy 48
Statement of Purpose 48
Operating Principles 48
Context 49
Goals 51
Appendix A - Georgia Basin-Puget Sound transboundary area 53
Appendix B - Acronyms 54
Appendix C - Air Quality Standards & Objectives 55
Appendix D - Definitions 57
Appendix E - Membership of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy Coordinating
Committee 58
Appendix F - Issue Ranking and Identification System (IRIS) 59
DECISION TREE FOR AIR QUALITY IS SUES 59
Appendix 2^Health Report Summary Statistics 60
Appendix 3 Summary of Technical Reports 64
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY1
Overview
This report was prepared by Environment Canada (EC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) with input from Health Canada. EPA and Environment Canada are the lead
agencies for the U.S. - Canada Border Air Quality Strategy pilot project, Maintaining Air
Quality in a Transboundary Air Basin: Georgia Basin-Puget Sound, announced by Environment
Canada and the U.S. EPA in Washington D.C., in June 2003. A major focus of this pilot project
has been the development of the Georgia Basin-Puget Sound International Airshed Strategy. The
purpose of this report is to summarize actions and initiatives undertaken by the partners involved
in this pilot.
Context
Over six million people live in the Georgia Basin (GB) region of British Columbia and the Puget
Sound (PS) region of Washington State (Fig. 1). Air quality in the transboundary GB-PS airshed
generally meets relevant federal standards on both sides of the border due in part to past and
ongoing actions by various governments. Ongoing efforts to improve air quality are prompted by
concerns about the human health and ecosystem effects, including degradation of visibility,
which may occur at air pollution levels currently monitored in the airshed.
In the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD), which includes the City of Vancouver and
the surrounding metropolitan region, past actions by federal, provincial and local governments
and industry and public stakeholders reduced emissions of sulfur oxides, carbon monoxide,
particulate matter, volatile organic hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides from all sources by 40
percent since 1985 (to 2000), despite a nearly 50 percent increase in population. Similar
initiatives by the EPA, the State of Washington, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and other
regional air quality agencies have resulted in comparable emission reductions in the Puget Sound
region.
1 Note that this report uses U.S. spelling.
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Figure 1: The Georgia Basin - Puget Sound International Airshed
Despite these efforts, serious challenges remain in this transboundary area to further reducing air
quality effects on human health, ecosystems, and visibility. For example, a 2003 air quality study
by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency found that air in the Seattle area has elevated levels of
toxic air pollutants which contribute to increased cancer risk. In addition, the Vancouver, Seattle,
and surrounding areas expect significant growth in population, economic activity, motor vehicle
use and marine vessel and port operations that may well result in future increased air pollution.
Forecasts predict that regional population will increase from 6 million in 2000 to 9 million by
2020.
Area and mobile sources are significant contributors of air emissions on both sides of the border.
Large point sources are also important in some areas, including oil refineries in the northern part
of Puget Sound, an electricity-generating station in the southern part, and pulp mills and cement
plants in the Georgia Basin. These and other sources contribute to domestic and transboundary
air quality issues in both countries. The efforts through the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
process emphasize continuous improvement and prevention of significant deterioration in a
region in which air quality standards are typically met but future growth threatens to reduce the
effectiveness of past efforts.
The key issues and challenges related to air quality in the transboundary GB-PS region include:
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Population growth and associated demands for increased transportation, energy and
employment in the region.
Significant projected increase in emissions from the marine sector.
Growth of emissions from the agricultural sector, particularly in the Fraser Valley Regional
District.
Degraded visibility, an important quality-of-life variable in this transboundary area
characterized by mountains and sea vistas, outdoor recreation and tourism.
A fuel-switching trend, where increasing natural gas costs are prompting industries to burn
other fuels and thus increase emissions of criteria air contaminants.
Interaction of air pollutants with the confined topography of the region, which can cause
significantly, degraded air quality during periods of stagnated air flow.
Past Collaboration
There is a long history of air quality management cooperation between the United States and
Canada due to the strong value for clean air held by our two nations, and the commitment that
emissions from one country should not impact another country. Successes include the 1941 Trail
Smelter Arbitration, the major efforts of the 1970s and 80s that led to the development of the
Canada-U.S. Air Quality Agreement and related Acid Rain Annex in 1991, and the addition of
the Ozone Annex to this Agreement in the year 2000.
Achievements at the federal, state, provincial and regional levels in the area include the 1992
Environmental Cooperation Agreement (BC Ministry of Environment (MoE), State of
Washington (WA)); the 1994 Interagency Agreement (BC MoE, WA, GVRD, and the Northwest
Clean Air Agency); the 2000 Joint Statement of Cooperation on the GB-PS Ecosystem; and the
2002 Statement of Intent on a GB-PS International Airshed Strategy.
The GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
Environment Canada, the U.S. EPA and various partner agencies recognized a need for a forum
to enhance information sharing and identify collaborative projects to strengthen air quality
management in this transboundary airshed. The GB-PS International Airshed Strategy (IAS)
Coordinating Committee provides this forum: an opportunity for air quality managers and
scientists from different agencies in the GB-PS to meet and discuss issues of mutual interest. The
Coordinating Committee has served as the implementing body for the Border Air Quality
Strategy pilot project. EPA and Environment Canada are the lead agencies of the IAS
Coordinating Committee.
The focus of this project is to: enhance information exchange on air pollution and related impacts
(health and ecosystem); improve knowledge of regional air quality that may have transboundary
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impacts; implement emission reduction efforts; and, examine policy options for improved
collaboration and management in the region. This work also serves as a case-study for air quality
management in a relatively clean area, where prevention of significant deterioration and
continuous improvement of air quality are priorities.
This work responds to public concern about health effects of current and projected air quality
and public support for cleaner air in the airshed. Such public support has been demonstrated by:
strong opposition to some proposed new sources of air emissions; the adoption, by some
agencies in the airshed, of air quality objectives more stringent than federal standards; and
formal resolutions by several British Columbia municipalities in support of bilateral efforts to
address transboundary air issues.
The purpose of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy is, through international and regional
cooperation to:
Reduce the impacts of air pollution to human health, ecosystems, and visibility in the
GB-PS airshed.
Prevent future deterioration and work towards continuous improvement of air quality in
the GB-PS region.
Establish practical and effective instruments to address shared concerns regarding
transboundary air pollution in the GB-PS region.
Organization and Members
The GB-PS International Airshed process has two lead agencies and consists of a Coordinating
Committee, and several work groups. (Fig. 2)
FIGURE 2: Membership structure of GB-PS IAS
/^~f Lead \""\
/ I Agencies j ^\
/ \(EC & EPA)/ \
/ IAS \
Coordinating
Committee
X
work\ A/VorkY/
qroup/- X , _ _ /" 9rouP
M Work T
The Coordinating Committee comprises the participating governments and agencies involved on
an ongoing basis and meets about every six months. These meetings are open to the public but
new members must be approved by the lead agencies prior to the meeting.
Canadian agencies that participate in the Coordinating Committee include Environment Canada,
Health Canada, British Columbia Ministry of Environment (BC MoE), the Greater Vancouver
Regional District (GVRD), the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD), and First Nations.
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U.S. agencies that participate in the Coordinating Committee include U.S. EPA (Region 10), WA
Department of Ecology, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA), the Northwest Clean Air
Agency (NWCAA), the Olympic Region Clean Air Agency (ORCAA), U.S. National Park
Service, and Tribes.
Work Groups address specific issues and facilitate collaborative work on initiatives (e.g.,
transboundary science). Group membership includes staff of participating agencies with an
interest in the initiative, who meet as required between meetings of the Coordinating Committee
to complete tasks. Corresponding Members (of Work Groups) are those who want to be
informed of progress but are unable to regularly participate.
Early Actions
Partners initially identified various projects to improve collaborative air quality management and
information sharing in the transboundary GB-PS airshed. These were then prioritized and the
highest ranked were chosen for action (the "early actions"). The purpose of these early actions
was to make short- and medium-term progress on issues of mutual concern while progress on
longer-term issues was pursued. The six early actions were:
The "Issues Ranking and Identification System" (IRIS) - a system to prioritize future air
quality issues for collaborative action;
The Airshed Characterization - a scientific assessment of air quality in the GB-PS and
predictions of future conditions using best available computer modeling;
The "TRansboundary Air Data Exchange" (TRADE) - a computer application to more
efficiently exchange transboundary air quality data between agencies;
The GB-PS International Airshed Strategy website - an internet-based source of
information (hosted by Environment Canada) on best air quality management practices
and related activities by partner agencies;
Notification of new sources - an effort to improve notification and information sharing
for proposed facilities that may affect transboundary air quality; and
The clean vehicles and fuels initiative - efforts focused on on-road and marine vessels,
especially the early introduction of cleaner vehicles and fuels in the region.
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Initiatives
As the early action projects evolved, the Coordinating Committee refined them and grouped
them under two themes: (i) emission reduction efforts; and (ii) improved air management
coordination mechanisms. Those early actions still in progress were reformed, expanded and
became known as "initiatives" (Fig. 3). These are carried out by work groups made up of staff
from partner organizations that participate on the Coordinating Committee.
The core work of the International Airshed Strategy occurs via the initiative work groups.
Figure 3: The Initiatives of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
Clean vehicles
and fuels
Agricultural
activity
Possible
future
initiatives
Notification of
major new
sources
Improved
mechanisms &
coordination
Marine vessels
and ports
Residential
wood heating
Communications
& outreach
Coordinated
transboundary
science & data
The GB-PS IAS Coordinating Committee acknowledges that the initiatives will progress at
different rates and that some initiatives may be completed while emerging priorities may result in
the creation of new initiatives and work groups.
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Air Quality in the Airshed
The air quality in the GB-PS airshed currently meets relevant national standards in the United
States and Canada. Research shows that there is apparently no clear threshold for health effects,
particularly with respect to ozone and particulate matter, and that visibility is degraded by air
pollution levels currently monitored in the region. Furthermore, a recent report by the BC Lung
Association shows that significant social and economic benefits can be achieved from continuous
improvement efforts in air quality.2 Finally, the significant growth projected for the region
threatens to overwhelm past successful efforts to improve air quality in the GB-PS International
Airshed.
The pollutants of primary concern in the airshed are ozone and fine particulate matter (particles
up to 2.5 microns in diameter (PM^.s) and their precursors.
Emission Sources and Forecasts
In Southwest BC and Northwest Washington, sources of air pollutants include area sources,
transportation, industry, and agriculture (Fig. 4).
The most recent emission inventory for the lower Fraser Valley (year 2000) documents the
beginning of a change in important sources within the Georgia Basin airshed. Marine sector
emissions account for 22% of the NOx, with light-duty vehicles responsible for 23%. Marine
sector sources emit 33% of the 862, the largest single source sector in the airshed. Agriculture is
the dominant source of PMio (21%), with space heating (including wood burning) emitting 20%
of the PM2.5
Past efforts, such as controls on stationary sources and on-road mobile sources, have
substantially reduced concentrations of certain pollutants and concentrations of others are
forecast to continue declining despite significant growth in the region (e.g., NOx, VOC).
However, ambient concentrations of other pollutants are forecast to increase significantly (e.g.,
S02, NH3).
The emissions of smog-forming pollutants for the entire Puget Sound airshed are forecast to
decrease by 20% from 1996 to 2018, based on the inventories and forecast available at the
present time. The most recent forecasts for the Lower Fraser Valley portion of the Georgia Basin
show similar decreases after 1996, but the trend slows, with overall smog-forming emissions
showing slight increases after 2015 (Figure 5).
2 Benefits to the medical system have been determined to be in the order of millions of dollars
per year from relatively minor improvements in air quality (e.g., 10% decrease in ambient PM2.5)
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Figure 4: Dominant emission sectors in the GB-PS International Airshed
Contaminants
NOX
VOC
S02
NH3
PMio
PM2.5
Puget Sound3
On-road mobile
Marine vessels
On-road mobile
Natural sources
Point industrial sources
Marine vessels
Agriculture
Agriculture
Woodstoves and Fireplaces
Transportation (diesel)
Woodstoves and Fireplaces
Transportation (diesel)
Georgia Basin (LFV)4
On-road mobile
Marine vessels
On-road mobile
Solvent evaporation
Stationary sources
Natural sources
Point industrial sources
Marine vessels
Agriculture
Agriculture
Transportation (diesel)
Transportation (diesel)
Figure 5: Backcast & forecast of top smog-forming pollutants (Georgia Basin)
100
80 -
60 -
40 -
20 -
Light & Heavy-Duty
Vehicles
Top "Smog-Forming
Pollutant" Sources
(kilotonnes / yr)
Solvent Evaporation
0
1985 1990
1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020
2025
3
Washington Department of Ecology, 2001 Review of the Washington State Visibility Protection State Implementation Plan
The Lower Fraser Valley (LFV) includes the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) and Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) in
Canada, as well as Whatcom County in the U.S.
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Future Directions
Growth in the GB-PS of population and the associated demands for land development,
transportation, energy, employment and others will continue to stress the GB-PS ecosystem
unless managed wisely.
The Future Directions chapter of this report focuses on three strategic approaches to emission
reductions and improved air quality management in the transboundary GB-PS region. These
strategies include continued multi-agency information sharing (e.g., increased access to
transboundary inter-agency data); work on collaborative projects (e.g., transboundary efforts to
reduce ammonia emissions); and, progress on joint policy efforts, as appropriate (e.g.,
exploration of clean transportation networks for the region, such as marine vessel emission
reductions).
Conclusions
The two years of work on the BAQS pilot project, Maintaining Air Quality in a Transboundary
Airshed: Georgia Basin-Puget Sound has enabled considerable progress in transboundary air
quality management in this transboundary region; an area that seeks to continuously improve air
quality to protect human health and environmental values.
Significant achievements have already been realized in the broad areas of science, leading to the
completion of an extensive airshed characterization project, and of important progress in
assessing and developing emission reduction measures to reduce diesel particulate from older
buses and trucks and from marine vessels. Another important accomplishment is improved
information exchange between agencies regarding air management policy, procedures for
reviewing new sources, and other air management activities.
Further work is required to fully recognize the potential of this collaborative process and to
achieve the objectives of improved human health and ecosystem protection for this
transboundary region.
Forecast and Backcast of the 2000 Emission Inventory for the LFV Airshed (1985-2025)", by the GVRD and FVRD, dated July 2003
14
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DEVELOPMENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL AIRSHED
STRATEGY
Membership and Structure
The Georgia Basin - Puget Sound (GB-PS) International Airshed process has two lead agencies,
a Coordinating Committee, and several work groups. (Figure 6)
Figure 6: Membership structure of GB-PS IAS
/^/ Lead \~"~\
/ \ Agencies ) ^\
/ \(EC & EPA)/ \
/ IAS \
kvork\ Coordinating
^L Committee .
\/Work\ /Work
\groupj
The leads agencies are Environment Canada and the U.S. EPA, which share responsibility for
advancing the work under the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
The Coordinating Committee comprises all participating governments, agencies and groups
involved in the process. This group meets approximately every six months.
Work Groups focus on specific issues and consist of individuals working together to achieve a
specific task (e.g., transboundary science). Agency leads assign staff to Work Groups. The Work
Groups meet as required in between meetings of the Coordinating Committee to complete their
tasks. Corresponding Members are individuals who wish to be kept informed but who are unable
or uninterested in participating on a regular basis.
Membership in the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy Coordinating Committee is
summarized in Figure 7.
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Figure 7: Agency participation in the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
Agency
BC Ministry of Water, Land & Air Protection
Environment Canada (Vancouver office)
Fraser Valley Regional District
Greater Vancouver Regional District
Health Canada
Northwest Clean Air Agency
Olympic Region Clean Air Agency
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
St6:lo Nation
Swinomish Tribe
Upper Skagit Tribe
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Reg. 10)
U.S. Department of Interior,
National Park Service
Washington State Department of Ecology
Lead agencies
Canadian
U.S.
Member
Canadian
U.S.
Timeline
While transboundary dialogue and cooperation in the GB-PS date back several decades, it is
largely since the 1990s that significant accomplishments have been made. A chronology of
accomplishments is below.
1992 - Environmental Co-operation Agreement - between Washington State and the Province
of BC. This Agreement emphasized coordinated action and information sharing on
environmental matters of mutual concern including air quality.
1994 - Memorandum of Understanding - between Washington State, the Province of British
Columbia, the Greater Vancouver Regional District and the Northwest Clean Air Agency to
ensure timely prior consultation on new sources of air pollution, as provided for in the U.S.-
Canada Air Quality Agreement.
2000 - Environment Canada and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency signed a Joint
Statement of Co-operation on the GB-PS Ecosystem. This Statement outlines common goals
and objectives, confirms the commitment and leadership of the two federal governments and
recognizes the special interests of residents and their governments.
2002 - EC and the EPA signed the Statement of Intent for the GB-PS International Airshed
work. This Statement pledges continued collaborative efforts regarding present and future air
quality issues in the GB-PS airshed.
2003 - EC and EPA launched the Canada-U. S. Border Air Quality Strategy to explore
mechanisms to address transboundary air quality issues.
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Activities
Formal interagency agreements have facilitated strong project-level collaboration between
agencies in Canada and the United States regarding air quality and other environmental issues in
the GB-PS region. Substantial progress was achieved to reduce air emissions in the 1980s and
1990s, through combined unilateral and partnered efforts of the federal, state, provincial, and
regional air quality management agencies in the GB-PS airshed. These efforts emphasized
emission reduction programs for industrial operations, commercial sources, and motor vehicles
and resulted in air quality improvements throughout this transboundary airshed.
Since the 1990s these interactions have been formalized in different agreements, statements of
cooperation, and statements of intent. The GB-PS International Airshed Strategy process began
in 2001 with a two-day workshop. The catalysts for this process included:
Possible health effects at air quality levels currently measured in the GB-PS.
Mounting public concern over the potential impacts of air emissions from proposed new
energy developments on both sides of the border.
Indications that projected regional growth in population, economic activity and motor
vehicle use could result in increased air pollution in future years.
A Canada-United States air quality planning workshop was held at Bellingham, Washington in
February 2001 to discuss these issues. Representatives of Environment Canada, the U.S. EPA,
state, provincial, and local governments, air quality management agencies, and First Nations and
Tribes attending this workshop agreed that clean air was a priority.
It was recognized that a collaborative transboundary air quality planning process would:
Strengthen information sharing on best air management practices.
Offer a collaborative opportunity to characterize the international airshed.
Facilitate and explore improved processes for the review of new emission sources near
the U.S.-Canada border (within the context of the U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement).
Enable the development of joint project partnerships to reduce emissions.
A second international air quality meeting was held in Tsawwassen, BC in May 2001. At this
meeting, it was agreed to identify clean air issues and challenges in the region. Another outcome
of this meeting was a commitment to develop a path forward on international airshed planning
that focused on the development of cooperative mechanisms for air quality management and
reduction of emissions.
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Early Actions
The participants at the May 2001 meeting developed a draft Statement of Intent on areas of
future cooperation, which recognized that: the Georgia Basin and Puget Sound is a shared
airshed; residents of this shared airshed have common goals for high levels of environmental
quality, strong communities and healthy economies; and, a transboundary airshed management
strategy for the GB-PS ecosystem should be developed.
A list of 14 air quality management priorities to improve information sharing and collaborative
air quality management identified at the earlier Bellingham workshop was reviewed. It was
agreed that all of the items on the list should be considered in the airshed management strategy.
The list was also prioritized, and it was recommended that work on the six highest ranked
priorities should begin as soon as possible. These became known as the "early actions". The
purpose of these early actions was to make short- and medium-term progress on issues of mutual
concern while progress on longer-term issues was underway.
The six early actions are:
Develop a system to prioritize future air quality issues for collaborative action. This
early action became known as the "Issues Ranking Information System" (IRIS). The IRIS
project has been completed and is being used to assess the relative priority of
transboundary air quality issues for collaborative planning.
Conduct a scientific characterization of current air quality in the airshed and
predict future air quality by using computer models. This early action evolved into
the Georgia Basin / Puget Sound Airshed Characterization report, which was completed
and released by Environment Canada and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in
September of 2004. This report is discussed in more detail later in this document.
Work to more efficiently exchange transboundary air quality data between
agencies. This early action is now known as the "TRansboundary Air Data Exchange"
(TRADE). The objectives of this project are to identify and evaluate available air quality
data sets; and develop data exchange and access protocols to provide a Canadian
equivalent to the U.S. EPA Rapid Access to Information System (RAINS). The TRADE
early action has progressed to the point that it is accessible to Canadian users, however
additional work is necessary to enable it to function in a transboundary mode.
Early action to provide information on air quality management practices via the
internet. This early action resulted in the creation of the GB-PS IAS Clearinghouse
website6. The Clearinghouse website was launched in October 2002 and is maintained as
part of the Environment Canada website. It is serving a key role in sharing and learning
about best air quality management practices among air quality management partner
agencies in the Puget Sound and the Georgia Basin. It is also a very effective
communication and outreach tool to enable pubic access to information about the GB-PS
International Airshed Strategy process and progress.
' http://www.pyr.ec.gc.ca/airshed/index_e.shtm
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Early action to improve information sharing and notification procedures for
proposed new facilities that may affect transboundary air quality This inter-agency
work resulted in a report analyzing and providing recommendations for notification and
assessment of new air emission sources in the region in accordance with the U.S.-Canada
Air Quality Agreement. Work on this important issue is continuing as one of the
initiatives in the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy.
Actively work towards the early introduction of cleaner vehicles and fuels in the
region. Priority for work on this early action focused on three key issues: on-road testing
of heavy duty vehicle (truck and bus) emissions, the early introduction of cleaner motor
vehicle fuels, and the reduction of marine vessel emissions in and near ports.
o Collaborative work related to on-road testing of heavy duty vehicle (truck and
bus) emissions focused on review of test program design, operation and
effectiveness in various jurisdictions. This information resulted in the
identification of best practices which were considered during program review and
revision in the Georgia Basin.
o The early introduction of cleaner motor vehicle fuels work involved review and
documentation of motor vehicle clean fuel projects in the Puget Sound where the
U.S. EPA, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and other partner agencies and
stakeholders are promoting the use of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel that will be
required beginning in 2006 and 2007, and advising other Georgia Basin - Puget
Sound International Airshed Strategy partners of the benefits of implementing
similar projects. Biodiesel and ethanol projects were also included in this early
action. This work is continuing as one of the initiatives related to the GB-PS
International Airshed Strategy.
o Early action for the reduction of marine vessel emissions in and near ports
focused on the completion of emission inventories for marine vessels in the
Georgia Basin and Puget Sound and the technical assessment and review of
management options and emission reduction measures to reduce ship emissions.
Work on the marine vessel emission management is continuing as one of the GB-
PS International Airshed Strategy initiatives.
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Initiatives
As the "early action" projects evolved, the Coordinating Committee focused the prioritized list
into two themes: (i) emission reduction efforts, and (ii) improved coordination mechanisms. The
early actions were restructured and expanded and became known as "initiatives". These
initiatives are each led by workgroups made up of members of the Coordinating Committee.
Since some projects were completed as early actions they were not adopted as initiatives.
The core activity of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy occurs through the initiatives. The
initiatives include emission reduction efforts and improved mechanisms and coordination.
The GB-PS Coordinating Committee acknowledges that each initiative will progress at different
rates and that some initiatives may be finished while other new ones may be initiated.
While the work through the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy process began in 2001, it was
significantly enhanced with its inclusion as one of three pilot projects under the Canada-U.S.
Border Air Quality Strategy.
Further process-related opportunities may include the addition of new members (such as new
regional districts, new Tribes and First Nations, and others with strong interest in air quality), the
development of new initiatives to address issues of mutual concern, and the greater engagement
of other stakeholders, such as the health community, businesses, and the public.
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AIR QUALITY ISSUES AND CHALLENGES
Air Quality Issues and Challenges in the GB-PS
The key issues and challenges related to air quality in the transboundary GB-PS region include:
Population growth and associated demands for increased transportation, energy and
employment in the region, all of which may have significant air quality impacts.
Significant projected expansion of marine vessels and the growth of this sector as the
dominant source of smog-forming emissions.
Growth of emissions from the agricultural sector, particularly in the Fraser Valley regional
District.
Degraded visibility, an important quality-of-life variable in this transboundary area
characterized by mountains, sea, outdoor recreation, and tourism.
Fuel-switching, where increasing natural gas costs are encouraging industries to burn other
fuels and thus increase emissions of air pollution.
Interaction of air pollutants with the confined topography of the region, which can cause
significantly degraded air quality during periods of stagnated airflow.
Airshed Characterization
Further description of GB-PS air quality issues and challenges was provided by the collaborative
Characterization of the Georgia Basin-Puget Sound Airshed ^ Airshed Characterization") study
and other sources. The Airshed Characterization study was undertaken by Environment Canada,
EPA, and state, provincial, and local environmental agencies to characterize the air quality
within the GB-PS airshed. Material in this chapter is drawn from the Airshed Characterization,
available online at: http://www.pyr.ee.gc.ca/air/gb_ps_airshed/summary_e.htm.
The goal of the Airshed Characterization study was to establish a common understanding of the
current status of and trends in air quality in the GB-PS airshed. Its specific objectives were to:
Determine if significant transboundary transport of air pollution occurs in the GB-PS airshed.
Identify and describe key factors (natural and anthropogenic) affecting regional air quality.
Establish a current benchmark to measure changes in air quality over the next 10 years.
Identify key gaps in air quality science for the GB-PS, especially for particulate matter,
ozone and visibility, and including gaps, if any, in monitoring, inventory, and modeling
approaches and systems.
Model anticipated air quality results of specific air quality management scenarios.
Provide the basis for the development of public education and communications materials
designed to enhance citizen understanding of air quality in the region.
21
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Although the area described and studied in this report is commonly known as the GB-PS airshed
(Fig. 1), it is really two smaller airsheds (Georgia Basin and Puget Sound) that interact with one
another. The GB airshed comprises the Canadian portion of the airshed, Whatcom and San Juan
Counties in Washington State and the southern coastline of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It should
be noted that the southern boundary of the Georgia Basin airshed extends to the higher terrain of
the north Cascades. The PS airshed encompasses the counties to the south of Whatcom County.
What Determines Air Quality?
In the GB-PS, air quality is largely determined by the weather patterns that circulate air
throughout the airshed, and these in turn are influenced by the topography of the region. The air
moves and disperses airborne chemicals that are emitted from a variety of human and natural
sources, both from within and outside the airshed.
Periods of stagnation occur primarily in the summer and winter. At these times, the windflow
patterns do not push air pollutants between the two airsheds, effectively isolating them from one
another and allowing air pollutants to build up within each airshed.
Not all pollutants that affect the GB-PS originate within the airshed. Airborne chemicals from
the Eurasian continent and California have been observed to add to the overall mixture of
pollution within the airshed. Although these pollutants are usually well-dispersed by the time
they arrive, they nevertheless add a small, but measurable, amount to the ozone and PM ambient
concentrations. The most favorable time for air pollutants to enter the airshed from the Pacific
Ocean is during the spring, particularly April and May. In addition, interactions between airborne
pollutants can cause secondary air pollutants to form in the atmosphere.
Emissions
Emissions of air pollutants come from both natural and anthropogenic sources. These airborne
pollutants may undergo chemical reactions in the atmosphere, creating new pollutants that can
affect human and ecosystem health, and cause visibility problems. Emissions from
anthropogenic sources can be controlled through regulation or the application of technology, but
natural emissions are beyond human control.
Over the next decade, emissions of pollutants from the on-road vehicle sector are projected to
decrease in both airsheds, but emissions from the marine sector and from agricultural practices
are projected to increase.
The table below summarizes predicted emission trends and forecasts for several key air
pollutants in the GB-PS airsheds. Actual future emission levels will depend on population and
economic growth as well as on policy decisions taken by Canada and the United States.
22
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Large decreases in SC>2 emissions in Puget Sound are projected due to significant point source
reductions and proposed ultra-low-sulfur diesel requirements. By contrast, 862 emissions in the
Georgia Basin are expected to increase significantly due to projected increases in marine traffic.
The impact of increased marine traffic on Puget Sound emissions is not yet fully characterized.
Agencies are undertaking a comprehensive marine emissions inventory in 2005. Significant
portions of the VOC emissions within the airshed are biogenic and therefore cannot be controlled
through regulation or technology.
Figure 8: Emission trends and forecasts for the PS7 and GB8 airsheds
Pollutant
NOX
SO2
VOC
NH3
PJVllO (Includes road dust)
PJVl2.5(Includes road dust)
Emission Trend and Forecast
Puget Sound
(1996-2018)
-43%
-61%
-11%
+20%
+23%
+19%
Lower Fraser Valley
(2000-2020)
-24%
+21%
-12%
+32%
+19%
+ 8%
Ambient Air Quality
Airborne chemicals and the associated meteorology are measured at a number of sites
throughout the GB-PS airshed to quantify air quality both in time and space. The ambient
measurements indicate the effectiveness of various air quality management strategies.
Research conducted in developing the Characterization of the Georgia Basin - Puget Sound
Airshed found that the amount of ground-level ozone in the ambient air is primarily the result
of photochemical reactions. Ozone and its precursors can be transported great distances. As a
result, the highest ozone concentrations are often observed downwind of urban centers and at
high elevations in rural areas.
Rural areas are "NOx-limited" in the summer months due to the relatively large amounts of
naturally occurring VOC emissions and the small amounts of NOX emissions. Reducing
ozone in rural areas may require large reductions in anthropogenic NOX emissions from
urban areas.
Ozone concentrations of 40 to 50 parts per billion (ppb) are often recorded at rural coastal
locations in the spring and are identified as "background" concentrations. These
concentrations are caused by emissions from both natural and anthropogenic sources,
Source: Dept. of Ecology, 2001
8 Source: GVRD, 2003, "Forecast and Backcast of the 2000 Emission Inventory for the Lower Fraser Valley
Airshed (1985-2025)"
23
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including a small but measurable amount transported from outside the airshed. Addressing
these contributions to background from regions outside of the GB-PS airshed may require
significant effort and resources.
Fine particulate matter (dry mass) is dominated by carbonaceous material (organic
compounds). In urban centers, nearly 50 per cent of the particle mass comes from
combustion.
Natural emissions of volatile organic compounds represent from one-third to one-half of the
total VOC emissions in the airshed. The magnitude of natural emissions poses limits on
achievable reductions in total VOC emissions and on the effectiveness of nitrogen oxide
emissions controls in reducing ambient PM and ozone concentrations.
SO2, NOx, and organic compounds are the dominant pollutants responsible for degraded
visibility in the Puget Sound air basin. In the Georgia Basin SC>2 and NOx are dominant;
organic compounds are a likely contributor but the magnitude of the contribution is unknown
because black carbon is not currently measured in the GVRD.
Social and Economic Context
Air quality is linked to many aspects of quality of life in the GB-PS including a healthy
environment, a vibrant economy and social well-being. Air pollution is also related to a number
of social and economic trends in the region, including increases in population, transportation
demands, energy consumption, and shifts in industry. Air pollution causes significant social,
environmental and economic impacts. Examples include:
Health impacts ranging from eye, nose and throat irritation to decreased lung function and
premature death.
Damage to farm crops and vegetation, reducing yields of economically important crops.
The reduction in visibility caused by the buildup of airborne particles in the air can have
detrimental effects on tourism.9
Many sources of air pollution are also sources of greenhouse gases. Increasing concentrations of
these heat trapping gases in the earth's atmosphere contribute to climate change, with potentially
far reaching environmental, social, and economic consequences.
For a single extreme visibility event, computer models estimate losses in future tourist revenue to be $7.45 million
in the Greater Vancouver area and $32 million in the Fraser Valley.
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Limits of Predictive Air Modeling
Significant gaps still exist in our knowledge of how specific air pollutants react with each other
and impact human and environmental health within the GB-PS airshed. Methodologies used to
compile emission inventories and to forecast emission trends rely on assumptions and computer
modeling techniques that need further refinement.
Air quality computer models applied to the GB-PS airshed provide estimates of pollutant
concentrations for days or weeks, but predictions of seasonal or annual concentrations are not
available. The computer models being applied to the airshed need further evaluation, particularly
for winter conditions. For this reason the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy includes an
initiative on transboundary science and data that will enable partner agencies to continue
working together to address these gaps (see Chapter 6 of this report).
Significance of Transboundary Transport
The Airshed Characterization found that there is sufficient transboundary airflow to transport
airborne pollutants across the international boundary. In fact, windflow patterns move pollutants
across the international border in both directions through all seasons of the year in the Georgia
Basin airshed.
Furthermore, the results of computer-modeled simulations confirm that there is significant
transboundary transport of air pollution in the southern portions of the Georgia Basin airshed.
The main exchange of air and pollution between the GB-PS airsheds is through the "portal"
situated to the south of Haro Strait, extending from south of Bellingham westward to Port
Angeles. Flow through the portal is strongest in the fall.
Implications
The Airshed Characterization identified a variety of key implications for developing strategies to
improve air quality in the GB-PS airshed. These are listed below.
Because wind flow patterns move pollutants across the international border in both directions
through all seasons of the year, the management of air pollution in the GB-PS airshed will be
improved through coordinated attention by both Canada and the United States.
The stagnant weather associated with episodes of poor air quality usually impacts the GB-PS
airsheds simultaneously. During these episodic events, the movement of air pollutants
between airsheds is extremely limited. However, strategies taken to address episodes of poor
air quality will continue to benefit from coordinated international action in the GB-PS.
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Interactions between airborne pollutants can cause secondary air pollutants to form in the
atmosphere. Emission reduction strategies will be most effective when the synergistic effects
of emission changes on air chemistry and subsequent air pollutants are considered.
The concentration of ambient air pollution is linked to social and economic trends, including
increasing population, transportation demands, energy consumption and shifts in industry.
Although emissions of pollutants from the on-road vehicle sector are projected to decrease
over the next decade in both airsheds, emissions from the marine sector are increasing, as are
emissions from agricultural practices. Emission reduction strategies directed toward those
sectors where emissions are forecast to increase will have the largest positive impact on
ambient air quality. Programs and strategies to reduce emissions and improve air quality will
also assist with strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Because there is no clear threshold below which effects do not occur, ambient concentrations
of air pollution, while they meet respective national standards in Canada and the United
States, may have a negative impact on human health and the environment.
Fine particulate matter (dry mass) is dominated by carbonaceous material. In urban centers,
nearly 50 % of the particle mass is from combustion. The management of emissions from
combustion sources should be a continuing priority to reduce fine particulate concentrations
and related human health problems.
SC>2, organic compounds, and NOx are the dominant pollutants responsible for degraded
visibility in the GB-PS. Improving visibility will require attention to all of these pollutants.
The amount of ground-level ozone in the ambient air is primarily the result of photochemical
reactions. Ozone and its precursors can be transported great distances. As a result, the highest
ambient ozone concentrations are often observed downwind of urban centers and at high
elevations in rural areas. The effectiveness of ozone control strategies needs to be evaluated
by taking ambient measurements of ozone such appropriate locations.
Natural emissions of VOC represent from one-third to one-half of the total VOC emissions in
the airshed. The magnitude of natural emissions poses limits on achievable reductions in total
VOC emissions in the airshed. Natural VOC emission levels also limit the effectiveness of
NOx emission controls in reducing ambient PM and ozone concentrations.
Ozone concentrations of 40 to 50 parts per billion are often recorded at rural coastal locations
in the spring and are identified as "background" concentrations. These concentrations are
caused by emissions from both natural and anthropogenic sources, including transport from
outside the airshed. Addressing these contributions to background from regions outside the
GB-PS airshed may require significant effort and resources.
Weather systems bringing airborne pollutants to the GB-PS move across the Pacific Ocean in
three to five days. The impact of the long-range transport of pollutants from Asia is more
often noted in the spring. Air pollutants from sources outside the airshed are usually well
dispersed, although the impact on ambient air quality in the airshed is measurable. Ambient
air quality strategies within the airshed need to consider the addition of pollutant
concentrations from distant sources.
26
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HUMAN HEALTH
Introduction
Since the 1970s, there has been growing concern about the health effects of air pollution and the
short- and long-term effects on human respiratory and cardiovascular health. Epidemiology
studies have consistently shown that certain levels of air pollution have a negative impact on
human health. Many factors such as smoking, biological agents, and genetic predisposition may
cause lung and heart illnesses, and it is well known that air pollution exacerbates these illnesses.
However, the role air pollution plays as the underlying cause of both illness and premature death
is still being studied.
Air pollution can affect our health in many ways with both short-term and long-term effects.
Short-term effects of air pollution include irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, and upper
respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. While substantial uncertainties still
exist in a number of areas and further research is needed, recent epidemiologic studies have
shown statistically significant associations of various ambient PM indicators with a variety of
cardiovascular and respiratory health endpoints, including mortality, hospital admissions,
emergency department visits, other medical visits, respiratory illness and symptoms,
physiological or biochemical changes related to the cardiovascular system, and physiologic
changes in pulmonary function. Other symptoms can include headaches, nausea, and allergic
reactions. Short-term exposure to air pollution can also aggravate the medical conditions of
individuals with asthma and emphysema. Long-term health effects can include increased risk of
mortality lung cancer, chronic respiratory disease, heart disease, damage to the brain, liver, and
kidneys. Continual exposure affects the lungs of growing children and may aggravate or
complicate medical conditions in the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.
The extent to which an individual is harmed by air pollution usually depends on the total
exposure to the pollutant, that is, the length of time of the exposure and the concentration of the
pollutant, the sources and composition of the air pollution mixture, and the health status of the
individual. Pollutant levels and exposure to these pollutants vary from region to region.
Topography (valleys and mountains), weather conditions and the activities that cause the
emissions are all key factors in defining the ambient air quality.
This chapter outlines the health research being carried out in the Georgia Basin-Puget Sound
(GB-PS) airshed to improve our understanding of the health effects of air pollution. This work
was commissioned by Health Canada's Air Health Effects Division (AHED) under the U.S.-
Canada Border Air Quality Strategy.
27
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Background
The GB-PS pilot project is one of three cooperative projects under the Canada-United States
Border Air Quality Strategy (BAQS). In Canada, BAQS will further assist in the development of
the evidence base for new reductions in transboundary flows of air pollutants and help meet
priority domestic commitments under the Canada-wide Standards process. From a public health
perspective, BAQS will provide the regional health science knowledge needed to guide and
justify measures to reduce air pollution and protect public health with a focus on the
transboundary health effects of particulate matter.
The objectives established for Health Canada's BAQS activities include:
Undertake health risk assessments and health impact economic analyses for the airshed;
Examine region specific issues of concern to health, including transportation emissions,
seasonality and unique regional exposures, with focus on particulate matter;
Initiate health studies to examine the effects of short and long-term exposure to pollutants
and their interactions. This includes the establishment of a population-based study group
to examine the effects of longer-term exposure to air pollution including examination of
susceptible sub-populations (children and the elderly). A key focus of this work is the
transboundary health effects of particulate matter.
To assist in the design of the studies for the GB-PS airshed (Figure 12), Health Canada convened
an experts-workshop in Vancouver on October 22, 2003 attended by approximately 30
researchers from both the United States and Canada. The workshop was an opportunity to
establish research priorities, explore different approaches to cohort studies and invite proposals
for the program of research.
The research reported in this chapter was carried out by the University of British Columbia, the
University of Victoria and the University of Washington. The research was coordinated through
a partnership between AHED and the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, an agency of
the British Columbia Ministry of Health Services. Three project coordination and progress
reporting meetings were held involving research teams from the three universities and
representatives of the air quality management agencies.
The health research projects carried out to date fall in one of two categories: first, the
development of cohorts to evaluate health outcomes and secondly, the development of exposure
assessment tools. These projects will form the base for more extensive work to be conducted in
years 2005 to 2007. The established cohorts and the exposure assessment tools will be further
linked to produce estimates of exposures to various air pollutants for each individual using
validated exposure models that incorporate specific pollution sources. These models will allow
assessment of the impact of these exposures on various health outcomes and the impact of
alternative air quality management strategies on health outcomes. They will also allow
evaluation of the impact of specific emissions sources on air quality and resulting health effects.
28
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Health Research
Health research projects under BAQS completed since January 2004 provide the information
needed to estimate an individual's exposure to air pollution in the airshed based on where an
individual lives and compare that to specific health outcomes. Five projects were undertaken as
follows:
A. Establishment of a childhood respiratory disease cohort using the B.C. Linked
Health Database (University of British Columbia)
The ultimate objective of this study is to examine the relationship between changing levels of air
pollutants (due to air quality management strategies and changes in emissions) and respiratory
health among young children. Respiratory disease in children has been linked to air pollution
exposure in numerous settings. This project established a birth cohort to evaluate the relationship
between incidence of childhood respiratory disorders and exposure to air pollutants in the
Georgia Basin Airshed (GBA). The analyses will focus on birth outcomes, asthma and
bronchiolitis. The cohort includes 120,000 children born in the GBA. This cohort was then
mapped according to geographic distribution of birth places (Figure 9). A reliability assessment
on the residential history data was also performed.
Figure 9: Birth distribution within GVRD
Proportion of births by Urban/Rural classification in GVRD area
between 1999 and 2002, by FSA
J
| | GB_boundary_utrn
Using various sources of information, socioeconomic status indicators such as average income
and unemployment rates were obtained to be used as covariates in better understanding the
health effects of air quality on health outcomes.
29
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Crude bronchiolitis and asthma rates were calculated for the overall cohort as a pilot for the full
study. Figure 10 depicts the bronchiolitis rates for subjects born between 1999 and 2001
inclusive.
Figure 10: Bronchiolitis rates for subjects born between 1999-2001
Bronchiolitis rates per 100 person for Georgia Basin and GVRD
between 1999 and 2001, by FSA
Legend
FSA_GB
B3A_I.P3_ALL
^H 0.0000-4.6
4.6001-0.8
86001- 12.3
12.3001 -18.4
^B 16.4001 -24.6
H 24 6001 -37.5
^j GB_boundaiy_utm
B. Analysis of birth outcomes in the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD)
using the BC Perinatal Database Registry and the BC Linked Health Database
(University of British Columbia)
The purpose of this project was to examine the relationship between adverse birth outcomes and
exposure to air pollutants in the GVRD area using a subset of the respiratory disease cohort
described earlier. Recent studies provided evidence of an association between adverse birth
outcomes and air pollution. These studies suggest that birth outcomes may be an especially
sensitive indicator of the health impacts of air pollution. This study has provided thus far:
Summary statistics for preterm birth, low birthweight births and intrauterine growth
retardation (IUGR) using BC Vital Statistics data.
Map of all-births by case (low birthweight, preterm, IUGR)/control status
30
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Summary reports and maps are provided in Appendix 2. Linkages to the BC Linked Health
Database and the Perinatal Database Registry will be conducted during the 2005-2007 period
along with the appropriate statistical analyses.
C. Data inventory and consolidation, evaluation of existing GIS data for Georgia Basin
and Puget Sound Airshed (University of Victoria)
Different levels of Canadian and U.S. governments, working groups, academic researchers, and
consultants have collected a broad range of information on air quality, pollution sources,
geographical features and socioeconomic characteristics. This project consolidated the existing
information for the GB-PS Airshed into a single GIS data inventory that will be used to support
research on the effects of air pollution on health. This database will also be used to estimate an
individual's exposure to air pollution in support for projects I and II. Information consolidated
includes health data, socioeconomic data, pollutant exposure data (lead, ozone, paniculate matter
etc.), emission sources, topography and meteorology data.
The work identified data gaps and opportunities for improving data utilities. A Data Inventory
website was developed and is available at http://www.geog.uvic.ca/AIR. The inventory contains
information on sources of emissions, meteorology, topography, socioeconomic status, health
databases, base mapping, and ambient air monitoring.
The data inventory identified studies that would be useful for increasing the spatial resolution of
exposure estimates or associated data. These completed studies include:
1 Feasibility study of using MODIS data to indicate annual average concentrations of
particulate matter for neighborhood areas. Satellite data may be able to provide
measurements of particulate matter throughout the airshed, without the need for
additional permanent ground-level monitoring.
2. Method development for using property assessment data to produce maps of land
use, commercial and industrial locations, fireplace locations, and building age and
type. Assessment data for individual buildings can be used to better characterize
neighborhoods.
3. Validation of EMME2 traffic volume model and road classification comparison.
Modeled traffic volumes can be used to develop a road classification system that can be
applied to areas without traffic counts or modeled traffic volumes.
31
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D. Enhanced assessment of exposure to traffic and wood smoke and incorporation of
meteorology (University of British Columbia)
This project refined the spatial analysis of population exposure to traffic and residential wood
burning emissions in the GB-PS airshed. This involved a suite of related technologies including
Geographic Information Systems, spatial data analysis, meteorology and fixed-site and mobile
monitoring campaigns to model ambient concentrations and exposure. A key feature of this
project is the development of modeled and validated exposures at fine spatial scales of
resolution, such as the urban neighborhood. The ultimate goal of this project as it extends into
years 2-3 is to develop the GB-PS Air Pollution GIS, a collection of databases and tools to aid in
the determination of the association between exposure to air pollutants and health outcomes. This
will assist policy formation around air quality management in the entire transboundary airshed.
Key regional issues addressed in the project include household wood smoke, traffic emissions
and incorporation of meteorology as follows:
Household wood smoke: Ambient wood smoke emissions in the GVRD were estimated
using wood smoke emissions surveys and other spatial databases. This stage of the
research was meant to inform the spatial sampling of ambient wood smoke in a winter
2004-2005 fixed-site and mobile sampling campaign. Respondents were geo-coded using
postal code information and their emissions, based on the prior winter burning season,
were estimated at their place of residence using emissions factors from the provincial
survey. These survey-based emissions estimates were then combined with a series of
other geographic databases to estimate a surface of ambient winter wood smoke
concentrations.
Traffic emissions: As with the wood smoke modeling, the traffic emissions study was
based first on the use of spatial databases to estimate emissions (NC>2 as a traffic marker)
and target high population exposure locations for sampling and validation campaigns
(Figure H4). Concentration estimates were based on a series of steps involving spatial
data processing.
Figure 11: NO2 Pollution surfaces in GVRD
NO2 Pollution Surface Predicted from 17 Monitoring Locations
32
NO2 ppb -^ Expressways
28 y Major Roads a
Minor Roads
10.7
nd Highways
Note: As this pollution surface was created with the use of only road networks.
it should be noted that, as expected, there are higher values near the mterchang
and intersections.
-------
Meteorology: In order to estimate the influence of meteorological conditions on the local
transport and dispersion of emissions, a highly parameterized source area model was
developed. It uses meteorological data (hourly wind speed, wind direction, time of day
and cloud cover) to determine emissions sources that influence a location's local air
quality and the extent of their influence. The model uses cloud cover and wind to
estimate the dispersive nature of the atmosphere. The model was tested and appears to
capture the influence of wind speed, wind direction and stability on the dispersion and
advection of emissions.
The wood smoke and traffic models were validated and refined using separate sampling
campaigns.
E. Bronchiolitis and fine particulate air pollution in Puget Sound and Georgia Air
Basin (University of Washington)
The goal of the first phase of this study was to identify a birth cohort in the Puget Sound Air
Basin and develop a metric for regional traffic and wood smoke exposure. The hypothesis is that
infants residing near busy highways or in areas impacted by wood smoke are more likely to be
hospitalized for bronchiolitis during the first year of life than infants without these exposures.
A cohort of all infants born in the Puget Sound portion of the airshed was established and data on
these infants including infant vital statistics data, birth hospitalization data, and first year of life
hospitalization data indicating a discharge diagnosis of bronchiolitis (if applicable) have been
obtained. Preliminary analysis of the dataset was explored for the primary variables that may be
predictive of disease occurrence in the cohort.
Out of the cohort, 95% of the subjects with identified bronchiolitis hospitalizations were
admitted between the months of November and May. The overall rate of bronchiolitis is 30%
greater in subjects whose residential zip code is in an urban vs. rural area. The rate of
bronchiolitis hospitalization is two-fold greater among infants whose mothers report active
smoking during pregnancy compared to those who are self-described non smokers (Figure 13).
33
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Figure 13: Bronchiolitis hospitalization rate by major risk factors - Puget Sound, WA
Risk Factors
Maternal smoking during
pregnancy
Yes
No
Unknown
Urban residence
Rural residence
Gestational Age (weeks)
> 37 1/7
34 1/7-37
29 1/7 - 34
25-29
Male
Female
Rate (per 100 infant-years)
2.4
2
1.8
3
1.0
2
2.0
6
3.6
5
1.0
N
25,513
216,927
5,604
230,760
17,284
229,816
14,189
3110
879
127,003
121,041
Conclusion and Recommendations
Research to examine the association between health effects and ambient air quality in the GB-PS
international airshed is a work in progress. The first phase of the three year project has
established the foundation for subsequent studies to help provide the information needed to
guide and justify measures for reducing air pollution and protect public health. This research will
determine sources of greatest concern in each part of the airshed and develop a common basis of
understanding between Canada and the United States regarding transboundary air quality
conditions, potential future trends, and associated impacts on human health with special
emphasis on particulate matter.
It is recommended that:
Health Canada continue to fund the program of health studies begun during the BAQS
pilot.
Health Canada should consider continuing the BAQS health studies funding beyond the
year 2007 to facilitate research on the long-term health implications.
A committee with representatives from health agencies on both sides of the border should
be struck to coordinate transboundary air health effects studies in the airshed.
Communications and public outreach be carried out in order to address community
concerns about air pollution issues and gain public support for the scientific research
activities within the region.
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GEORGIA BASIN-PUGET SOUND VOLUNTARY
INITIATIVES
Introduction
Projects were initially identified for collaborative efforts (initially as "early actions" and later as
initiatives) based on mutual transboundary interest. In addition, the Issue Ranking and
Identification System (IRIS) was used to determine if initiatives should be addressed through the
GB-PS International Airshed Strategy process.
As the early action projects of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy evolved, the Steering
Committee focused the prioritized list into two themes: (i) emission reduction efforts, and (ii)
improved coordination mechanisms (Figure 9). Some of the early actions were restructured as
initiatives that are each led by workgroups made up from members of the Steering Committee.
Several projects were completed as early actions and were therefore not adopted as initiatives.
Several initiatives are new, not previously identified as early actions but identified by the
Coordinating Committee as concerns which should be addressed with a cross-border focus.
Not all of the IAS member agencies are represented on each initiative workgroup. Agencies
provide members to the initiative workgroups according to their mandates, priorities, and
resources. Workgroups generally seek voluntary and incentive-based programs to achieve
emission reductions. They also seek opportunities to capitalize on the regulatory programs within
the member agencies.
Summary of Initiatives
Marine Vessel and Port Emissions Reduction Initiative
The leads of this initiative are Environment Canada (Vancouver office) and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (Region 10). Other partners include the BC Ministry of
Environment (BC MoE); Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD); Greater Vancouver Regional
District (GVRD); Northwest Clean Air Agency; Olympic Region Clean Air Agency; Puget
Sound Clean Air Agency; Swinomish Tribal Association; Washington State Department of
Ecology.
Marine vessel and port activity in the GB-PS is projected to double, and for some ship and port
activity sectors, to triple in the next 10 to 20 years. With the introduction of cleaner fuels and
more stringent emission standards for on-road motor vehicles, marine vessels and ports may soon
become the largest source sector of air emissions in many areas of the GB-PS international
airshed.
The reduction of air emissions from marine vessel and port operations in the GB-PS airshed is
necessary to ensure ongoing compliance with the respective national air ambient quality
35
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standards on both the Canadian and the U.S. sides of the international border and to protect
public health and the environment in the communities in the vicinity of and downwind from
large port terminals and marine vessel shipping routes.
The purpose of this initiative is to:
Explore new emission management opportunities and techniques by monitoring and sharing
information about marine shipping and port air quality issues, and air emission reduction
initiatives within the GB-PS airshed and other major national and international shipping
locations.
Facilitate research, feasibility studies, pilot testing and application of new ship and port
emission reduction technologies and measures within the GB-PS airshed.
Develop and implement improved methods and processes to record ship movements, port
visits, engine characteristics, and fuel quality for application in future emission inventories.
Prepare ship emission inventories for the year 2005 in the GB-PS airshed, which are as
comprehensive and as accurate as possible within available data and budget resources.
Participate and support, where possible, the evaluation of the feasibility and effectiveness of
an IMO Annex VI Sulfur Emission Control Area (SECA) in collaboration with related
initiatives on the west coast of North America and other coastal and Great Lakes regions in
North America.
Many lessons were learned through this initiative. For instance, recent and projected marine
vessel and port activity in the GB-PS showed that air emission management for this sector is
increasingly important. Also the management of marine vessel and port air emissions is
complicated by the international nature of ship ownership, operations, and regulatory authority.
Next steps for this initiative include:
Completion of an accurate inventory of ship and port air emissions for the 2005 calendar
year, a priority for continued assessment of air management options for this sector.
Participation in the assessment of the proposed North American SECA, an important
opportunity to ensure that the GB-PS region is included in this broad-based measure to
reduce ship emissions if studies indicate that a SECA is a viable and cost-effective approach.
Consideration of additional cost-effective measures for ship fuel quality and engine
emissions as necessary.
Evaluation of opportunities for increased support of collaborative emission reduction
initiatives by ship owners/operators and port authorities.
Continued reporting to the U.S.-Canada Air Quality Committee.
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Clean Vehicles and Fuels Initiative
This initiative is led by Environment Canada and the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
Participating agencies are Greater Vancouver Transportation Authority (TransLink), GVRD,
Washington Department of Ecology, U.S. EPA, and Northwest Clean Air Agency.
Light-duty and heavy-duty motor vehicles are the source of significant quantities of smog-
forming pollutants, air toxics and greenhouse gases within the Georgia Basin and Puget Sound.
A 2003 Puget Sound Clean Air Agency evaluation of air toxics indicated that 70% of cancer risk
from inhaled air toxics in Seattle arose from diesel exhaust (using the California Environmental
Protection Agency's toxicity evaluation for diesel particulate).
The first steps for this initiative included preparing reports that evaluated emission reduction
options for on- and off-road heavy duty diesel vehicles in the Lower Fraser Valley,
understanding relevant existing programs including funding programs, and understanding the
present availability of various fuels in Georgia Basin and Puget Sound.
This initiative benefits from several larger national and regional efforts aimed at reducing
emissions from vehicles, such as:
National emission standards, in the United States and Canada, for on- and off-road gasoline
and diesel engines.
National regulations in the United States and Canada, governing composition of gasoline and
diesel fuel.
Agreement between the Government of Canada and vehicle manufacturers to reduce vehicle
greenhouse gas emissions.
Washington State law adopting California vehicle emission standards.
Mandatory vehicle inspection/maintenance programs in more-populated portions of the GB-
PS.
U.S. Clean Diesel Campaign, and the trucking and locomotive and rail sector work groups of
the U.S. West Coast Collaborative.
U.S. EPA Voluntary Diesel Retrofit Program.
Retrofit and ultra-low sulfur fuel programs for school buses (e.g., Clean School Bus U.S.A
which had school bus retrofit projects in 22 states in 2003) and other public fleets in Puget
Sound Clean Air Agency and Northwest Clean Air Agency.
Agreement between Canadian Urban Transit Association and Environment Canada to retrofit
transit buses, including 50 buses in the Georgia Basin.
Memorandum of Understanding between the Railway Association of Canada, Transport
Canada and Environment Canada to reduce emissions.
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Building on these successes, the initiative is now investigating the potential for:
Extending outreach regarding school bus retrofits to suggest ways children and their
families can reduce emissions in their own lives (e.g., anti-idling).
Anti-idling technologies and practices for locomotives operating mostly within the airshed.
Providing low vapor-pressure fuel in the border region.
Sharing of insights in the design of on-board diagnostic (OLD) vehicle inspection and
maintenance programs.
Educating the motoring public about what actions to take in response to OBD indications.
Other public outreach efforts.
Members of this initiative workgroup have learned that it takes time to develop relationships
with different fleet categories, but once these relationships are developed, the opportunities for
significant emissions reductions for fleet vehicles are generally limited by budget availability
only. Well established off-the-shelf emission reduction solutions are readily available. Puget
Sound participants have expressed a desire for a GB-PS specific fund to which projects could
apply. Some existing EPA grant programs, such as the West Coast Collaborative, may provide
similar coverage, though not specific to the GB-PS.
Notification of Major New Sources Initiative
The chairs of this initiative are Washington State Department of Ecology and BC MOE. Other
partners include Environment Canada, FVRD, GVRD, U.S. EPA Region 10, U.S. National Park
Service, and Health Canada
Environment Canada, U.S. EPA and partner agencies recognize the need to strengthen
information sharing and collaboration in this transboundary airshed within the context of the
existing notification requirements of the U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement.
The Notification of Major New Sources Initiative is a mechanism to explore refinements and
improvements to the notification and consultation procedures for new sources of air emissions
that may have a transboundary impact. This has been driven by public concern about large new
sources of air pollution and by public support for continuous improvement of air quality in the
region.
The scope of this work includes policy and regulatory analyses and recommendations.
Activities completed under this initiative include:
Review of air approval procedures for new sources in BC and the northwest United States.
Determination of key regulatory gaps and issues in the notification and consultation on new
sources that may have a transboundary impact.
Training, tools, and techniques to determine best available technology (BAT).
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Key lessons learned from this initiative are that the issue is complicated due to the multi-party
regulatory framework and somewhat overlapping mandates. In general, agencies feel that the
current transboundary notification process is working well although there are strong concerns
from some stakeholders and the public. This initiative may benefit from increased dialogue with
energy assessment agencies.
Opportunities for cooperation and next steps include:
Revising the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy website to provide more easily accessible
information regarding proposed new sources in the region, or developing a separate website.
Updating the 1994 Interagency Agreement on new source notifications between agencies in
the GB-PS area.
Working to bring regional energy project approval agencies into any revised notification
agreement.
Cooperation with industrial stakeholders (to determine if a streamlined approach to
permitting is preferable, from a business perspective).
Transboundary Science and Data Initiative
The chairs of this initiative are the U.S. EPA (Region 10), Environment Canada (Vancouver
office). Other members include Washington Department of Ecology, GVRD, Health Canada, BC
MOE, Olympic Region Clean Air Agency, U.S. National Park Service, Washington State
Department of Health
The purposes of this initiative are to:
Adopt data sharing practices and data sharing tools to ensure free and efficient access to
all air quality-related data sets between agencies by 2006.
Ensure that jointly developed, current, and high-quality scientific knowledge about air
quality and its health and ecosystem impacts is available to decision-makers.
Develop principles (by 2006) for involving other participating agencies during the initial
planning process of new scientific studies.
Develop ongoing inter-agency studies to address knowledge gaps, such as those
identified in the reports "Characterization of the GB-PS Airshed" and "Status of Air
Quality and Effects of Atmospheric Pollutants on Ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest
Region of the National Park Service".
Policy recommendations of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy must be based upon sound
science to be credible. This initiative will ensure that science is conducted efficiently and
transparently resulting in a common understanding of the issues.
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Projects completed by this initiative include:
The report entitled, "Characterization of the Georgia Basin/Puget Sound Airshed."
TRansboundary Air Data Exchange (TRADE) - a web application to facilitate access,
exchange, display and analysis of data and information.
"Status of Air Quality and Effects of Atmospheric Pollutants on Ecosystems in the Pacific
Northwest Region of the National Park Service".
The key lesson learned from this initiative is that air quality science benefits from strong cross-
agency relationships among scientists. This facilitates data exchange, identification of mutual
interest opportunities for collaboration and a deeper understanding of the science-related roles
and responsibilities of air quality agencies in the GB-PS.
Next steps of this initiative may include developing of an inventory of: (i) existing air quality-
related projects in which participating agencies are involved; (ii) data sharing tools participating
agencies currently have available; (iii) prospective projects participating agencies are considering
to undertake; and (iv) data gaps.
The workgroup notes that inter-agency scientific collaboration is supported under the U.S.-
Canada Air Quality Agreement and seeks to build on this agreement to better understand
transboundary air quality issues in the region. Such collaboration will strengthen the
relationships between agencies, produce better science and be of value to decision-makers.
Communications and Outreach Initiative
The chairs of this initiative include Environment Canada (Vancouver office) and the Olympic
Region Clean Air Agency. Other members include the Washington Department of Ecology,
GVRD, Health Canada, BC MOE, U.S. National Park Service, Puget Sound Clean Air Agency,
U.S. EPA (Region 10).
The purpose of this initiative is to build knowledge and understanding of new scientific and
technical information by communicating IAS findings with key information user groups.
Agencies participating in the International Airshed Strategy can learn from the communications
and outreach experiences of other agencies and leverage messages to more efficiently and
effectively reach out to the public and other stakeholders.
This initiative has completed the development of several communications and outreach products
related to the objectives of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy.
Key lessons learned by this workgroup include: (i) the benefits of transboundary cooperation on
communications and outreach efforts, since such efforts are transferable between agencies; and
(ii) the benefit of a streamlined approach to communications and outreach services for the
multiple agencies participating in the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy process.
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Next steps include: address existing information needs with important stakeholder groups;
conduct formal public polling (by Environment Canada) of GB-PS residents about air quality;
and, coordinate and maximize the reach of IAS communications and outreach activities.
Agriculture Industry Emission Reductions Initiative
The chair of this initiative is the FVRD. Other partners include the BC Ministry of Agriculture
Food and Fisheries, BC MOE, Environment Canada (Vancouver office), GVRD, U.S. National
Park Service, Northwest Clean Air Agency, U.S. EPA (Region 10), and the Whatcom
Conservation District.
The purpose of this initiative is to work with partner agencies and the agriculture industry to
develop collaborative approaches or strategies for reducing emissions from agriculture sources in
the GB-PS airshed.
Emissions from agriculture sources are projected to increase steadily, accounting for 76% of the
total ammonia emissions and 32% of the total particulate matter emissions in the Lower Fraser
Valley by 2025. Emissions forecasts predict that this will become the second most significant
anthropogenic source of smog forming pollutants in the LFV by 2025.
Agricultural sources of primary particulate matter include road dust, diesel combustion and
agricultural burning activities. Agricultural sources also contribute to the production of
secondary particulates by the release of precursor pollutants. Ammonia is a significant concern
as its main source is agricultural operations and practices (animal wastes, fertilizers and crop
residues) and accounts for approximately 80% of the total agricultural emissions in the LFV.
Greenhouse gas emissions, in the form of methane, are also significant and result mainly from
livestock manure handling practices.
Projects completed by this initiative include:
2004 - Report - Analysis of Best Management Practices and Emission Inventory of
Agriculture Sources in the Lower Fraser Valley. It is expected that this report will provide
the foundation for future work.
2004 - Membership established and scoping activities conducted.
2005 - Workgroup teleconference to further define the goals, objectives and path forward
for the initiative in the context of the GB-PS IAS.
2005 - Agriculture Partnership Committee Meeting - presentation and distribution of
materials on the "Analysis of Best Management Practices and Emission Inventory of
Agriculture Sources in the Lower Fraser Valley" report.
An important lesson from this initiative is that many environmental agencies have limited
abilities to regulate air emissions from agricultural sources due to policies and legislation such as
the British Columbia Right to Farm Act. Members recognize that actions taken by the
agricultural sector will be most effective if conducted on a voluntary basis.
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Next initiative steps include:
Consider development of ammonia management strategy in consultation with agriculture
industry.
Look for mechanism to predict future ammonia emissions from industry sources.
Seek opportunities to develop voluntary emission reduction programs with the agriculture
sector.
Encourage agriculture sector adoption of current control technologies and practices.
Develop strategies to reduce emissions from agriculture burning.
Develop communications materials addressing emission reduction actions for agriculture
operations, and identifying the role of ammonia in fine particulate formation in the region.
Work with the agriculture community to reduce odor emissions from their operations.
Identify opportunities and mechanisms to engage the agriculture sector in the GB-PS IAS
process. This may occur through representation by producer associations and or the BC
Agriculture Council, together with similar organizations in the United States.
Work in consultation with partner agencies and the agriculture sector/producers to develop
achievable mechanisms for reducing air emissions from agriculture operations, in particular
ammonia discharges.
Residential Wood Heating Emission Reductions Initiative
The co-leads of this initiative include the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, Puget Sound
Clean Air Agency, and the GVRD. Other partners include the Olympic Region Clean Air
Agency, Environment Canada (Vancouver office), U.S. EPA (Region 10), BC MOE, and the
Northwest Clean Air Agency.
The purpose of this initiative is to work with partner agencies in developing strategies and
mechanisms to improve regional and local air quality by reducing emissions from residential
wood heating activities.
Residential wood burning appliances and fireplaces emit significant amounts of air pollutants
and contribute to poor visibility and degraded air quality in the GB-PS region. Wood smoke
contains hundreds of chemical compounds such as NOx, CO, organic gases and particulate
matter which may contribute to elevated health effects particularly for sensitive individuals such
as children, the elderly and pregnant women.
On an average annual basis in Washington State, wood stoves and fireplaces account for about
9% of the total air pollution emissions. It is estimated that approximately half of the homes have
wood burning devices and contribute up to 80% of the air pollution recorded for residential
areas, particularly at night and on weekends. Comparatively, on Tribal Reservations, where there
is limited access to natural gas, it is estimated that 85% of the homes use wood heating
appliances.
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For the Georgia Basin, approximately one-third of all homes in the GVRD and FVRD have
wood burning appliances, however, most are not primary sources of heating. Recent
Environment Canada studies, in Montreal, comparing pollution levels of wood smoke in rural
areas with those in urban areas found significantly higher levels of PAHs, dioxins, and furans in
rural residential areas than the more urbanized areas. The highest concentrations were in the
evenings and on weekends during the winter wood burning season.
The work completed in 2004 by this initiative includes the establishment of membership and
scoping of future work activities. Key activities for 2005 include attending a 2-day conference
sponsored by the U.S. EPA on woodstove change-outs; considering how the new Washington
State PM2.5 based burn ban provisions will be implemented in the Puget Sound; and, updating of
the GVRD's draft Air Quality Management Plan (currently under review). Related actions
include encouraging the BC government to update the wood burning appliance regulation and
develop public education materials; and implementing strategies for voluntary emission
reduction actions during air quality events.
Lessons learned include:
It is difficult to develop collaborative strategies for reducing wood smoke emissions that
are transboundary in nature because the regulatory responsibilities and capabilities in BC
and Washington State differ significantly.
Significant funding is needed for agencies to offer financial incentives to homeowners to
replace older devices with cleaner technology (gas, propane, pellet, certified stoves).
Without a regulatory imperative that requires change-out, financial incentive is the only
way to reach most device users.
Next steps include:
PSCAA and other Washington State agencies will begin implementing the new PM2.5-
based burn ban trigger.
FVRD and GVRD will work to develop a program for voluntary burn bans when PMio is
measured at elevated levels. The implementation of the bans could involve a tiered
approach.
Partner agencies will look to cooperatively conduct outreach efforts to encourage the
upgrading of old stoves to newer, cleaner burning models.
PSCAA to explore the potential for reintroduction of Washington legislation that requires
home owners to notify prospective buyers if stoves do not meet EPA standards.
Partner agencies will explore the potential for development of strategies to encourage
burning only in certified stoves or fireplace inserts.
Tribes and other partners will explore potential development of wood stove change-out
programs for Tribal communities in Whatcom and Skagit counties, and residential
communities in the GVRD.
Tribes and other partners will conduct a wood stove inventory for Tribal communities in
Whatcom and Skagit Counties.
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FUTURE DIRECTIONS
Context
Population growth in the GB-PS and the associated demands for land development,
transportation, energy, employment and other resources will continue to stress the GB-PS
ecosystem unless managed wisely. This section describes three thematic approaches to
strengthen the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy and air quality management in this region.
These approaches include participation in activities under the U.S.-Canada Air Quality
Agreement, continued efforts on information sharing, collaborative actions and projects, and
joint policy efforts.
Future Directions
Continued Multi-agency Information Sharing
Information sharing is necessary to successfully manage air quality in our transboundary airshed.
Since multiple agencies on both sides of the border have mandates to manage air quality and
many more have a role in our region's air quality, we must ensure that strong lines of
communication are open and used to effectively exchange information.
To be fully utilized, information must be shared in diverse media and fora. While some tools can
efficiently reach large audiences (e.g., the Internet), efforts must also be made to establish and
strengthen networks emphasizing human contact and face-to-face communication. Organizations
such as the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy Coordinating Committee serve as a valuable
venue to explore better ways to manage air quality in our region under the umbrella of the U.S.-
Canada Air Quality Agreement.
It is the experience of the GB-PS Coordinating Committee that periodic meetings, hosted
alternately in Canada and the United States, have enhanced information exchange in this region.
GB-PS CASE STUDIES - Continued multi-agency information sharing
At the International Airshed Strategy meetings, agencies are able to announce significant new
issues and programs. This is a useful mechanism to highlight best practices, such as:
The success of the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency in the early introduction of clean diesel
fuels to the region.
The Greater Vancouver Regional District's work on their proposed new Air Quality
Management Plan and associated ambient air quality objectives.
The efforts of the Swinomish Tribe related to air quality monitoring.
The multi-agency efforts to develop the TRansboundary Air Data Exchange (TRADE)
application to share scientific data between agencies.
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The continued opportunity to exchange information in the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
forum will reinforce existing agency relationships and allow new ones to develop. Such new
relationships are already being developed through activities of the initiative working groups.
These relationships will have long-lasting benefits for air quality management in the GB-PS.
Collaborative Projects
Collaborative project-level efforts to address issues of mutual concern are important in that they:
(i) lead to a stronger project through the involvement of different agency perspectives, and; (ii)
afford participating agencies an opportunity to increase their understanding of each other's
mandate and roles. Collaborative projects are focused tasks that offer short- to medium-term
opportunities for joint efforts.
GB-PS CASE STUDIES - Collaborative projects
An example of a major collaborative project through the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
process is the work on the notification of new sources.
Since the U.S.-Canada AQA provides for notification and consultation on major new sources
with transboundary impacts, and permitting of new sources is conducted by several agencies, an
opportunity was identified to collaborate on a related project. This work was initially undertaken
by the Washington State Department of Ecology, the BC Ministry of Water, Land and Air
Protection and Environment Canada's Vancouver office.
This notification of new sources collaborative work produced a report with recommendations to
strengthen such procedures for the region. In addition, the agencies identified the preference for
more learning opportunities about preferred technologies for permitting processes, which
resulted in a training session for federal and provincial permitting staff.10 The initiative on
notification of new sources (described in Chapter 6) is intended to further this effort.
Other significant collaborative projects through the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
process include:
The GB-PS Airshed Characterization to establish a common understanding of the current
status of and trends in air quality in the GB-PS. Collaborative partners included the U.S.
Forest Service; WA Department of Ecology; Fraser Basin Council; EPA Region 10;
Northwest Clean Air Agency; Coast Salish Sea Initiative; Puget Sound Clean Air Agency;
Environment Canada (Vancouver); Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD); and BC
Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection.
Collaboration in which Health Canada and the academic community are pursuing research on
the impacts of air pollution on human health.
10. Best Available Technology (BAT) Workshop (Vancouver, 2004).
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The project to quantify health impacts from air quality in the Lower Fraser Valley was
convened through the BC Lung Association and involved BC Ministry of Water, Land and
Air Protection, Environment Canada (Vancouver), Health Canada, GVRD, Fraser Valley
Regional District (FVRD), and University of BC.
Work to identify emission reduction options for heavy-duty diesel fleet vehicles in the Lower
Fraser Valley which involved: the GVRD; FVRD; BC Ministry of Water, Land and Air
Protection; Environment Canada; Greater Vancouver Transportation Authority; and the
Clean Air Research Fund.
Joint Policy Efforts
The GB-PS International Airshed Strategy Coordinating Committee recognizes that some issues
require similar policies in both the Puget Sound and Georgia Basin to effectively address air
quality management in this transboundary airshed. These efforts tend to be both broadly scoped
and long-term efforts. Issues that require this approach tend to be of significant and mutual
concern, and projected to worsen over time without intervention. While joint policy efforts may
require significant dedication of staff by participating agencies, the benefits justify a joint policy
approach such as outlined in the U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement.
CASE STUDIES - Joint policy efforts
An example of a joint policy effort is the analysis of emissions from marine vessels and ports.
This issue is significant in the region (sector emissions are expected to be nearly equal to those
from light-duty vehicles by 2010). Since the marine sector is highly mobile and cost-sensitive, a
unilateral approach (e.g., domestic regulations) is not preferred to address this sector. Instead, an
approach is currently underway that emphasizes parallel efforts and works towards continuous
improvements.
Environment Canada and the U.S. EPA have jointly explored mechanisms to address this issue at
the regional and bilateral levels, and have also worked to engage industry stakeholders such as
the Ports of Vancouver and Seattle. To further ensure a parallel approach, a single effort is being
explored to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of an International Maritime Organization
Sulfur Emission Control Area in the GB-PS international airshed in conjunction with other
studies on the west coast, the Gulf coast, the east coast and the Great Lakes region of North
America.
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Future joint policy efforts may include issues related to:
A jointly-planned transportation network of road, marine, and rail networks to minimize
emissions. Examples could include truck stop electrification from the Washington State 1-5
corridor to Vancouver and provision of low sulfur fuel at key locations in the airshed to
ensure an adequate regional supply.
Transboundary efforts that further the goals of both the GB-PS International Airshed
Strategy and the West Coast Collaborative.
Efforts related to land-use planning that emphasize continuous improvements in air
quality. Participating agencies with a mandate for land-use planning could be involved to
encourage voluntary adoption of such principles for the region.
Scientific Collaborative Opportunities
In addition to the scientific ventures described above, further collaborative efforts are required to
better understand the complex air quality related processes in the GB-PS international airshed
and their impact on human health. This includes work to:
Develop tools to share air quality data and compare emissions inventories from Canada
and the United States.
Model transboundary flow of pollutants, including under different scenarios and for longer
periods.
More precisely forecast changes related to regional transboundary air quality, mainly from
the significant growth expected in the GB-PS (for at least the next two decades).
Continue the progression in the regional health research assessing the impacts of air
pollution on health.
In addition, collaborative efforts to reduce air emissions and improve air quality should be
concurrently pursued, with periodic reporting to the U.S.-Canada Air Quality Committee.
Examples of this work include the leadership role of the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency and the
subsequent partnership work to retrofit school buses to reduce diesel particulate emissions and
the related exposure of schoolchildren.
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APPENDIX 1
GEORGIA BASIN-PUGET SOUND
INTERNATIONAL AIRSHED STRATEGY
Statement of Purpose
The purpose of the Georgia Basin-Puget Sound (GB-PS) International Airshed Strategy is,
through international and regional co-operation and collaboration, to:
Reduce the impacts of air pollution to human health, ecosystems, and visibility in the
GB-PS airshed.
Prevent future deterioration and work towards continuous improvement of air quality in
the GB-PS region.
Establish practical and effective instruments to address shared concerns regarding
transboundary air pollution in the GB-PS region.
Operating Principles
The GB-PS International Airshed Strategy was developed by a coordinating committee, under
the U.S.-Canada Border Air Quality Strategy, a cooperative effort to investigate barriers to
reducing air pollution in transboundary air basins in North America developed under the
auspices of the 1991 U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement. The Coordinating Committee is made
up of members from regional, provincial, state and federal government agencies, and First
Nations and Tribes. Environment Canada Pacific and Yukon Region (PYR) and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 10 act as co-lead agencies, coordinating joint
activities by the Committee.
Committee members can nominate new members, who are accepted by consensus. Meetings of
the Committee are open to other agencies, the general public, and other interested parties who
can attend as observers or associate member agencies.
The Committee meets approximately every six months, alternately in Canada and the United
States. Canadian meetings are hosted by Environment Canada PYR and U.S. meetings are hosted
by EPA Region 10. The work of the Committee is supported by staff resources, shared funding
and in-kind contributions from member agencies.
The Committee recognizes that both inter-agency collaboration and unilateral initiatives are
necessary to improve air quality in the region. In this regard, agencies may develop or use
existing collaborative mechanisms, including:
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International frameworks between regional representatives of the federal governments
(e.g., EC/EPA Joint Statement of Cooperation of the Georgia Basin and Puget Sound
Ecosystem);
Formal international agreements (e.g., the Canada-U.S. Air Quality Agreement);
State-province agreements (e.g., B.C.-Washington Environmental Cooperation
Agreement);
Cooperative arrangements between regional agencies (e.g., cooperative air quality
monitoring agreement between GVRD and FVRD);
Others, such as the Georgia Basin Action Plan.
The GB-PS IAS Coordinating Committee will continue to meet biannually to review progress on
commitments made through the initiatives of the International Airshed Strategy. These biannual
meetings will also provide a forum to report progress on the IAS supporting initiatives, as
described below.
Ongoing collaboration is required to ensure that air quality deterioration is prevented and
continuous improvement is made despite the significant population growth that this region is
predicted to experience for at least the next two decades. It is expected that as progress is made
some initiatives may no longer need to be coordinated through the IAS process. In addition, new
scientific information may identify other issues relevant in a transboundary airshed context that
can best be addressed through the IAS approach and warrant addition as new initiatives. These
may be identified through the Issues Ranking Identification (IRIS) process, developed as an
"early action" of the IAS process and defined in the appendices.
Context
The GB-PS airshed is located in the western coastal region of the Canada-United States border.
Seattle and Vancouver are the largest communities, and the provincial capital of British
Columbia (Victoria) and the state capital of Washington (Olympia) are also located here.
Some significant sources of air emissions in the GB-PS include: marine vessels; automobiles,
trucks and buses (particularly vehicles with diesel engines); agricultural operations; wood stoves
and other space heating; open burning of yard and wood waste; industrial combustion sources;
and thermal power plants.
Air quality in this region currently meets relevant national air quality standards on each side of
the border. However, there are still important air quality concerns in this international airshed
since research shows that visibility and ecosystem health are diminished and human health is
affected at existing levels of air pollution.
The effects of air pollutants on human health can range from eye and throat irritation to difficulty
breathing, wheezing, coughing and aggravation of existing respiratory and cardiac conditions.
These effects can result in increased medication use, increased doctor or emergency room visits,
more hospital admissions and even premature death. Ecosystem effects include reduced
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visibility, atmospheric deposition to land and water ecosystems, and ozone damage of plant
tissue, and others.
Projected significant growth in population, economic activity, motor vehicle use, and other
transportation sources in Vancouver, Seattle and surrounding areas will increase air pollution if
this growth is not well managed. Recent projections show that the regional population will grow
from about six million in 2000 to nine million by 2020, a 50% increase in twenty years.
A major challenge faced by governments on both sides of the border is improving air quality
even as the population grows. In addition, the region is home to world-renowned parks, reserves
and vistas that contribute to strong tourism and a high quality of life for residents. Both the U.S.
and Canadian governments have programs designed to protect air quality in areas that meet the
national standards and to improve visibility. These are: the Prevention of Significant
Deterioration (PSD) program and Regional Haze Rule in the United States, and in Canada, the
"Keeping Clean Areas Clean" and "Continuous Improvement" components of the Canada-Wide
Standards and the ongoing Canadian Council of Ministers for the Environment process.
Despite the challenge of managing air quality in a multi-jurisdictional, transboundary airshed,
there is a long history of cooperation between the United States and Canada on environmental
matters. Early successes included the 1941 Trail Smelter Arbitration. Significant progress in the
1970s and 80s led to the development of the Canada-U.S. Air Quality Agreement (AQA) in
1991. Other efforts have taken shape under the AQA including the 2000 Ozone Annex and the
2003 Border Air Quality Strategy. Accomplishments at the state, provincial and regional levels
have included the 1992 Environmental Cooperation Agreement between British Columbia (BC)
and the State of Washington (WA); the 1994 Interagency Agreement among BC, WA, the
Greater Vancouver Regional District, and the Northwest Air Pollution Authority; the 2000 Joint
Statement of Cooperation on the Georgia Basin and Puget Sound Ecosystem; and the 2002
Statement of Intent on a Georgia Basin and Puget Sound International Airshed Strategy.
For all of the agencies involved in the IAS, continued collaboration across jurisdictions is an
important objective. In addition, the primary function of each agency is to manage air quality
within its jurisdiction and according to its standards and objectives. Both missions require that
current, high-quality scientific information be available to regulatory agencies to inform
decision-making. A key science component of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy is the
characterization of the GB-PS Airshed. The initial characterization identified transboundary flow
in the GB-PS area, with key findings based on meteorological patterns, ambient air quality data
and the most recent inventories of air pollutant emissions. These were combined with emission
forecasts and application of robust air quality computer models to describe future air pollutant
concentrations. The report, "Characterization of the Georgia Basin/Puget Sound Airshed", and
associated implications must be re-visited as new scientific information and results from
modelled emission scenarios become available. The results of studies through the Border Air
Quality Strategy, the Georgia Basin Action Plan and other initiatives will continue to provide
continuing scientific support for the development and implementation of the International
Airshed Strategy.
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Other examples of important scientific work to develop knowledge about air quality and its
relation to human health and ecosystems in the GB-PS airshed include:
Lower Fraser Valley emission inventory for the year 2000, including an emissions forecast
and backcast by the GVRD
NWAPA Bellingham air toxics screening project (2000)
EC PYR economic analysis of lost tourism revenue from degraded regional air quality
(2000)
Multi-agency Pacific 2001 air quality field study
BC Lung Association report on air quality and health (2003)
EPA Region 10 Northwest Air Summit consultation (2003)
BC MoE/EC study on particulate matter in British Columbia (2003)
2003 Puget Sound toxics evaluation by the PSCAA
FVRD analysis of best management practices to reduce ammonia emissions from the
Lower Fraser Valley agricultural sector (2004)
2004 Western Airborne Contaminants Assessment project by the U.S. National Park
Service (including Olympic National Park).
Ongoing air quality monitoring by various government agencies, the Swinomish Tribe,
Tsawwassen First Nation and Snuneymux (Nanaimo) First Nation.
Ongoing air toxics monitoring program in Seattle by WA DoE.
Based on the co-operative scientific and policy analysis described above, the GB-PS
International Airshed Strategy Coordinating Committee sought to inform its deliberations
regarding possible transboundary airshed management mechanisms. This resulted in a report
that identified the strengths and weaknesses of various mechanisms (Melious, 2004) and
assisted the Coordinating Committee in its development of the GB-PS International Airshed
Strategy.
Goals
As sister nations, Canada and the United States share many goals, including preserving and
enhancing the welfare of natural systems and protecting the health of their citizens. The national
governments of both countries have recognized that in many areas their airsheds have become
degraded by the same pollutants - ozone and particulate matter, their precursors, and acid
deposition. These contaminants know no boundaries and they exacerbate the difficulties and
concerns of citizens on both sides of the border. Over the past decade, each country has
established its own means of maintaining and enhancing these areas, with distinct mandates,
goals and objectives within the context of its environmental programs.
Members of the GB-PS Coordinating Committee have identified these goals for improving air
quality in the region through ongoing transboundary co-operation and collaboration.
1. Reduce the risk of adverse effects on human health and ecosystems.
2. Increase visibility and reduce regional haze in the airshed.
51
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The GB-PS Coordinating Committee recognizes that some actions taken to achieve these goals
may also reduce emissions of greenhouse gases in the region, an objective shared by many of the
coordinating committee partners.
These goals and objectives are to be addressed within the context of each country's legal
mandates, regulatory systems, and voluntary programs. This international airshed strategy
recognizes, in particular, the potential of the Canadian programs for Continuous Improvement
and Keeping Clean Areas Clean, and the U.S. programs for Prevention of Significant
Deterioration and reducing regional haze to help met these goals.
These goals will be supported by a series of initiatives that will stress emissions reductions and
improved air quality management. Initiatives will be chosen based on scientific information and
where a greater response will be produced by collaborative efforts.
The Coordinating Committee will develop and revise the list of initiatives. In the future, the
Coordinating Committee may decide to remove initiatives once they have achieved their
objectives and further transboundary collaborative efforts are no longer required. The Committee
may also add new initiatives where new information warrants action and such a cooperative
transboundary approach is the preferred method to accomplish air quality improvements. The
Issue Ranking and Identification System (see appendix F.) may be used to identify such new
initiatives.
52
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Appendix A - Georgia Basin-Puget Sound transboundary area
53
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Appendix B - Acronyms
BC
BCMoE
BC WLAP
CAA
CCME
Cl
CWS
EC (PYR)
ECE
EPA
FVRD
GB
GVRD
IAS
IRIS
KCAC
LFV
NOX
NSR
NWCAA
ORCAA
PM
British Columbia
British Columbia Ministry of the Environment (formerly
BC WLAP)
British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection (now
BC MoE)
Clean Air Act
Canadian Council of Ministers for the Environment
Continuous Improvement
Canada-Wide Standards
Environment Canada (Pacific-Yukon Region, i.e. Vancouver office)
Economic Commission for Europe
Environmental Protection Agency
Fraser Valley Regional District
Georgia Basin
Greater Vancouver Regional District
International Airshed Strategy
Issues Ranking and Identification System
Keeping Clean Areas Clean
Lower Fraser Valley
Nitrogen Dioxides
New Source Review
Northwest Clean Air Agency
Olympic Region Clean Air Agency
Particulate Matter
PMio Particulate Matter less than 10 microns in size
PM2.5
Ppb
Ppm
PS
PSCAA
PSD
RHR
S02
SOX
ug/nr3
voc
WA
WADoE
Particulate Matter less than 2.5 microns in size
Parts per billion
Parts per million
Puget Sound
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
Prevention of Significant Deterioration
Regional Haze Rule
Sulphur dioxide
Sulphur oxides
micrograms per cubic metre
Volatile organic compounds
Washington State
Washington State Department of Ecology
54
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Appendix C - Air Quality Standards & Objectives
Since there are several agencies in the GB-PS area that have regulatory authority over air quality
management, there are different standards and authorities for managing air contaminants. These
include the:
BC Air Quality Objectives
GVRD Air Quality Objectives
National Canada-Wide Standards (to be achieved by 2010)
National Ambient Air Quality Standards for the United States
Northwest Air Pollution Authority's Ambient Air Standards
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency's Ambient Air Quality Standards
U.S. Tribal Authority (Air) Rule*
Washington State Ambient Air Quality Standards.
Other agencies in the area that have air quality planning and or regulatory authority include:
Fraser Valley Regional District
U.S. Tribes (as per the Tribal Authority (Air) Rule).
* The U.S. EPA Tribal Authority (Air) Rule states that the Clean Air Act (CAA) directs EPA to
promulgate regulations specifying those provisions of the Act for which it is appropriate to treat
Indian tribes in the same manner as states. For those provisions specified, a tribe may develop
and implement one or more of its own air quality programs under the Act. This final rule sets
forth the CAA provisions for which it is appropriate to treat Indian tribes in the same manner as
states, establishes the requirements that Indian tribes must meet if they choose to seek such
treatment, and provides for awards of federal financial assistance to tribes to address air quality
problems. Note that in Canada, some First Nations have delegated authority from the federal
Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development (Indian Act Section 35) to manage land
and environmental issues on reserve, including activities that relate to air quality.
Table 2 (below) summarizes the various air quality standards and objectives relevant to the GB-
PS transboundary region.
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Table 2: Air Quality Standards and Objectives in the GB-PS airshed
Agency
Canadian
CCME CWS
NAAQO**
. BCMoELVLb
GVRD*
U.S.
U.S. EPA
NAAQS
WA DoE
NWCAA
PSCAA
Ozone
(ppb)
658h,3ya4
821h
2524h
15a
As per CWS
and NAAQO
As per CWS
and NAAQO
80 8h
As per EPA
Standards
As per EPA
Standards
1201h
PMio
(ug/m3)
n/a
n/a
5Q24h,x
50 24h'x/
30 g (Annual
objective)
15024h(1V
50 a
As per EPA
Standards
As per EPA
Standards
As per EPA
Standards
PM25
(ug/m3)
o/-\ 24h, 3ya98
n/a
As per CWS
As per CWS
65 24h(1V
15a,3ya
As per EPA
Standards
As per EPA
Standards
2524h,x
S02
(ppm)
n/a
0.351h
0 1Q24h
0.02a
As per
NAAQO
As per
NAAQO
(Maximum
acceptable
level)
0.03 a/
0.i424h(D
As per EPA
Standards
0.020 a/
0.10024h(1)
0.40 1M/
0.01 24h(1) /
0.02 a'x
N02
(ppm)
n/a
0.211h
0.1124h
0.05a
As per
NAAQO
As per
NAAQO
(Maximum
acceptable
level)
0.053 a
As per
EPA
Standards
0.050 a
As per
EPA
Standards
* - please note that GVRD objectives are currently under review as part of a new Air Quality Management Plan.
** - link to National Ambient Air Quality Objectives (NAAQO) http://www.hc-sc.qc.ca/hecs-
sesc/air quality/regulations.htm#3
a - based on the annual arithmetic mean
LVLb -The level "B" of the BC Ambient Air Quality Objectives is reported here. The BC MoE PM-io objective is
meant to be equivalent to Level B.
g = based on the geometric mean
x - never to be exceeded
1h -1 hour average
8h - 8 hour average
24h - 24 hour average
24h(1) - 24 hour average (not to be exceeded more than once per year)
3ya - to attain this standard, the 3-year average of the annual arithmetic mean PM25 concentrations from single
or multiple community-oriented monitors must not exceed 15 ug/m3.
3ya98 - achievement to be based on the 98th percentile ambient measurement annually, averaged over three
consecutive years
3ya4 - achievement to be based on 4th highest measurement annually, averaged over three consecutive years
56
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Appendix D - Definitions
1. "Air pollutant (or contaminant)", for the purposes of this Strategy, means a substance that
is emitted into the air and that: injures or is capable of injuring the health or safety of a
person, injures or is capable of injuring property or any life form, interferes or is capable of
interfering with visibility, interferes or is capable of interfering with the normal conduct of
business, causes or is capable of causing material physical discomfort to a person, or
damages or is capable of damaging the environment;
2. "Air pollution" means the presence in the environment of substances or contaminants that
substantially alter or impair the usefulness of the environment;
3. "Environmental justice" means the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all
people. Therefore, no group of people, including racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic groups,
should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental consequences resulting
from industrial, municipal, and commercial operations or the execution of federal, state,
local and tribal programs and policies;
4. "Georgia Basin" means the geographic area of southwestern British Columbia, adjacent to
the International border with the United States, and defined by the watershed of the
Straight of Georgia;
5. "Georgia Basin-Puget Sound" or "Georgia Basin-Puget Sound International Airshed"
means the combined transboundary area of the Georgia Basin and Puget Sound (App. A);
6. "Characterization of the Georgia Basin-Puget Sound Airshed" means the scientific study of
meteorological patterns, ambient air quality data and the most recent inventories of air
pollutant emissions with emission forecasts and the application of state-of-the-science air
quality computer models describing future air pollutant concentrations;
7. "Georgia Basin-Puget Sound International Airshed Strategy Coordinating Committee"
means the members of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy. Members are defined in
Appendix E, below;
8. "Lower Fraser Valley", for the purposes of this Strategy, means the geographic area
defined by the Greater Vancouver Regional District and Fraser Valley Regional District in
Canada and Whatcom County in the U.S.; and including the Strait of Juan de Fuca;
9. "Puget Sound" means the geographic area of northwestern Washington State, adjacent to
the Georgia Basin airshed, and defined by the watershed boundaries of Puget Sound;
10. "Smog Forming Pollutants", for the purposes of this Strategy, are those air contaminants
which are routinely inventoried by regulatory agencies and are associated with visibility
impairment and the formation of ground level ozone and fine particulate matter in the
airshed, namely PM2.5, NOX, VOC, SOX, and NH3.
11. "Transboundary air pollution" means air pollution whose physical origin is situated wholly
or in part within the area under the jurisdiction of one Party and which has adverse effects,
other than effects of a global nature, in the area under the jurisdiction of the other Party;
57
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Appendix E - Membership of the GB-PS International Airshed Strategy
Coordinating Committee
Member agencies:
Canada
British Columbia Ministry of Environment (formerly Water, Land and Air Protection)
Coast Salish Sea Initiative
Environment Canada (Pacific-Yukon Region)
Fraser Valley Regional District
Greater Vancouver Regional District
Health Canada
St6:16 Tribal Council
Tsawwassen First Nation
United States
Northwest Clean Air Agency
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
Olympic Region Clean Air Agency
Swinomish Indian Tribal Community
Upper Skagit tribe
U.S. EPA (Region 10)
U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service
Washington State Department of Ecology
Associate Member Agencies
Fraser Basin Council
Note - the GB-PS IAS Coordinating Committee has made efforts to invite participation by
First Nations and Tribes throughout the GB-PS area.
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Appendix F -Issue Ranking and Identification System (IRIS)
DECISION TREE FOR AIR QUALITY ISSUES
Prepared by:
Date:
INSTRUCTIONS:
Answer all questions to the best of your ability with readily-available information. The purpose of the Issue Ranking and Identification System (IRIS) is to assess, in a timely
manner, whether an issue requires an International coordinated response or not. It is not meant to require major research to apply.
Questions on "highlighted" lines are meant to elicit commentary - they are not part of the Yes/No decision-making tool.
In order to qualify as an issue requiring an International coordinated response, the answer to all 4 questions must be "Yes".
In the "Next Steps" section, outline what you think some logical next steps might be.
Address any climate change co-benefits in the "comments" section
Name and Brief Description of the Issue
Questions
Answer
Comments
1. Is this issue causing a negative impact on air quality?
2. Can we quantify or assess the importance of this impact?
3. Does the issue or the impact have a cross-border dimension such that responses
should be coordinated between Canadian and U.S. agencies and authorities?
If so, what would be the objectives of such a coordinated response?
4. Are there promising approaches for reducing the impact?
If so, what are they?
Next Steps
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APPENDIX 2
HEALTH REPORT SUMMARY STATISTICS
1. Summary statistics for preterm births in GVKD and Georgia Basin (GB) (1999-
2002)
7.2
7.0
6.8
6.6
6.4
6.2
6.0
Preterm birth per 100 live births
1999
.pre GB -*-Pre GVRD
2000 2001
Calendar year
2002
60
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2. Summary statistics for very low birthweight in GB and GVKD (1999-2002) for singleton
births without any congenital anomalies.
Rates of very low birth weight per 100 person
0.60
0.40
0.20
0.00
0.49
0.49
0.42
0.40
0.51
0.54
I I
0.49
0.50
1999
2000
2001
DVLBWT_GB BVLBWT_GVRD
Calendar year
2002
3. Summary statistics for IUGR in GVRD, GB and Canada (1999-2002)
IUGR rates per 100 person
-ion
10.0
8n
.u
2n
10.4
8.4
11.0
9.7
7.9
10.4
10.1
0
10.5
10.1
0
10.6
1999 2000 2001 2002
D IUGR_GB Canada D IUGR_GVRD
Calendar year
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4. Map of all births by case (low birthweight, preterm, IUGR)/control
Rates of low birth weight in Georgia Basin between 1999
and 2002,
by FSA
Legend
GB_FSA
Birth_I.P_LBWT
H 0.0000-2.4
| ] 2.4001 -3.7
' 3.7001 -4.0
; 4.8001 -6.1
| 6.1001 - 11 .1
] GB_boundary_utm
Rates of preterm births in Georgia Basin between 1999
and 2002,
by FSA
Legend
GB_FSA
Birth_I.P_PT
0.0-2.0
] 2.1-5.0
I 5.1-B.2
| B.21 - 7.3
- 90
^H 9.01 - 11.4
_] GB_boundarY_utrr
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Rates of IUGR in Georgia Basin between 1999 and 2002, by FSA
Legend
^J GB_boundary_utm
BirthJ.PJUGR
|^B D.OODO
| | 0.0001 - 7.8
j | 7.8001 - 10.2
| | 10.2001 - 12.5
f^Tl 12.5001 - 16.0
^H 160001 -50.0
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APPENDIX 3
SUMMARY OF TECHNICAL REPORTS
The following summary of technical reports is included here to highlight the recent and
considerable transboundary collaborative work in the GB-PS. While not all of these projects
were collaborative binational efforts, they all contributed to knowledge of air quality
management and science in the transboundary GB-PS region. They offer examples of best
management practices for agencies who manage air quality in this transboundary region. Note
that there are many studies and projects in addition to those described here that are not included
for brevity.
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
IAS Website
Communications & Outreach
To provide a list of best management practices and to act as a
clearinghouse of air quality-related information, including significant
activities of IAS partners.
Lead: EC PYR
Participants: all members of the IAS Coordinating Committee
EC PYR (Mullan)
Website, hosted by Environment Canada; presentations to IAS partners
Title
Theme
Jurpose
Jartners
Author
Product
development of an Air Quality Objective for PMi.s
mproved management mechanisms
To develop options for a new provincial PM2.5 air quality objective to
support Canada-wide Standards (CWS) implementation and airshed
management.
BC MoE, EC PYR
BC Lung Association
leport, consultation
64
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Dispersion Modeling Guidance Document
Transboundary science and data
To promote consistency in modeling air quality in BC
BC MOE, EC PYR
RWDI Inc.
Report, stakeholder consultation
Title
Theme
Purpose
Air Quality Primer
Communications and outreach
To help the public understand the terms used when discussing air quality,
what factors affect air quality in our communities, and the management
tools available to maintain and improve air quality in the future.
Jartners EC, BC MOE, BC Environmental Assessment Office, municipalities
Author Staff from partner agencies, CH2M Hill
Product Public document (>1500 copies), material for websites
Title
Theme
Purpose
Jartners
Author
Jroduct
First Nations and Air Issues Workshop
Communications & outreach
To identify mechanisms for aboriginal communities and their
address air quality issues
BC MOE, DIAND, EC PYR, St6:16 Tribal Council
neighbors to
West Coast Environmental Law
legulatory analysis report with recommendations; workshop;
workshop
summary of
65
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Odor Management Issue - Path Forward
mproved management mechanisms
To develop an approach to deal with odor management in BC.
BC MOE, EC PYR
RWDI AIR Inc
Report, interagency committee on odor management
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Air Quality Best Management Practices Guide
for Local Government
Communications & outreach
To provide information to local governments on mechanisms to improve
ocal and regional air quality. Local governments concerned about air
quality often do not have the in-house expertise to address related issues.
BC MOE, EC PYR
BCMOE
Report
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Jroduct
Cost-Benefit Analysis on Preferred Options from BC Lung Options
'aper
Health research
To provide enhanced information for decision-makers
and benefits of new air quality efforts
BC MOE, EC PYR, BC Lung Association
BCMOE
leport
regarding the costs
66
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Jartners
Author
Product
Toolkit for Local Government on Air-Related Planning Processes
Communications & Outreach
To provide a suite of specific tools for local
about the role of other levels of government
BC MOE, EC PYR
BCMOE
Report
government and information
in air quality management.
Title
Theme
Jurpose
Jartners
Author
Jroduct
Sea to Sky Airshed Project
mproved management mechanisms
develop an airshed management plan for the Sea to Sky corridor
BC MOE, EC PYR
VIOE Lower Mainland Regional Office
leport
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Health and Air Quality - Phase 1 - Methods for Estimating and
Applying Relationships between Air Pollution and Health Effects
Health
To identify and recommend risk assessment methods to estimate the
impacts of air pollution on human health for areas within British
Columbia, as well as in select adjacent/ shared airsheds.
BC MOE, EC PYR, Health Canada, GVRD, FVRD, UBC
RWDI Inc., BC Lung Association
Report, presentations (agency and public)
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Health Impacts from Air Quality in the Lower Fraser Valley Airshed
Health
To quantify the impacts from current and projected ambient air quality
the Lower Fraser Valley of British Columbia
in
BC MOE, EC PYR, Health Canada, GVRD, FVRD, UBC
RWDI Inc., BC Lung Association
Report, presentations
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
GB-PS Airshed Characterization
Science
The goal of the study was to establish a common understanding of the
current status of and trends in air quality in the GB-PS.
U.S. Forest Service; WA Department of Ecology; Fraser Basin Council;
EPA Region 10; Northwest Clean Air Agency; Coast Salish Sea
Initiative; Puget Sound Clean Air Agency; Environment Canada
(Vancouver office); GVRD; BC MOE
Bruce Thomson, Environment Canada (Vancouver office)
Report, presentations, web content
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
ANALYSIS OF BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND
EMISSIONS INVENTORY OF AGRICULTURAL SOURCES IN
THE LOWER FRASER VALLEY
Agricultural emissions
The purpose of the project was to:
Develop an updated and comprehensive emissions inventory for the
agricultural sector in the Lower Fraser Valley; and
Review existing best management practices (BMPs) for agricultural
sources of emissions and identify the preferred BMPs for voluntary
application in the Lower Fraser Valley
Environment Canada; FVRD; GVRD; BC Ministry of Agriculture, Food
& Fisheries
Levelton Consultants Ltd. And Golder Associates Ltd.
Report
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
GB-PS International Airshed Strategy Discussion Paper: Mandate,
Priorities and Best Management Practices of Participating Agencies
Improved management mechanisms
The purpose of this Discussion Paper is to provide a link between the
Airshed Characterization Report and the International Airshed Strategy.
The objectives of the Discussion Paper are to identify and report on
issues and current or planned management programs of individual
agencies related to improving air quality within the study area.
Environment Canada (Pacific- Yukon Region); U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (Region 10); U.S. National Park Service; St6:lo First
Nation; Swinomish Tribe; BC Ministry of Water, Land and Air
Protection; Washington State Department of Ecology; Greater Vancouver
Regional District; Northwest Clean Air Agency; Fraser Valley Regional
District; and Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
RWDI West Inc.
Report
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Transboundary Air Quality Management Models: Options for
Western Canada/United States
Improved management mechanisms
This study proposes five options for cooperative approaches to
transboundary air quality along the western Canada-United States border.
The purpose of the study is to provide information to the Georgia
Basin/Puget Sound International Airshed Coordinating Committee that
will assist in the development of a strategy for future cooperative efforts.
GB-PS IAS Coordinating Committee
Jean O. Melious (Western Washington University)
Report, presentation
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Best Available Technology (BAT) Workshop (Vancouver)
Improved management mechanisms
To train regulatory permit engineers on
Available Technology as part of the air
Similar courses were held in Saskatoon
procedures for establishing Best
emissions permitting process.
and Edmonton in April 2004.
EC (PYR), BC MOE, GVRD
MJ Bradley & Associates
Workshop
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
New Source Review of Air Approval Procedures in BC and the
Northwest United States
Notification of new sources
The objectives of the study were to:
identify existing Canadian and U.S. regulatory processes and
practices for the review of new sources of air emissions by
government agencies within the study area;
identify governmental procedures for NSR & related notifications
for projects that have a transboundary air quality component within
the study area, including stationary, energy, transportation, and other
sectors; and
identify and report on issues related to improving air quality
management within the study area with respect to inter-agency co-
operation regarding NSR.
BC MOE, WA DoE, EC PYR
RWDI West Inc. and Terry Nyman
Report, presentations
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Emissions of Dioxins, Furans and
Waste Combustion
Other Contaminants from Wood-
Wood heating
Assess the current use of wood residuals in British Columbia. Compare
the expected emissions from in-use and emerging wood combustion
technologies in British Columbia to Best Available Control Technology.
EC, GVRD, FVRD
Levelton Engineering consultants
Report
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Fuel and Technology Options for Reducing Marine Vessel Emissions
in the Georgia Basin
Marine vessel emissions
To present preliminary technical and cost-effectiveness assessment of
various options for reducing emissions from ocean-going vessels, cruise
ships, ferries and work boats.
Environment Canada
Genesis Engineering Inc.
Report: Fuel and Technology Options for Reducing Marine Vessel
Emissions in the Georgia Basin
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Management Options for Marine Vessel Air Emissions
Marine vessel emissions
To inform policy-makers/ stakeholders of the advantages/ disadvantages
of different regulatory, economic and voluntary instruments for reducing
marine vessel emissions of SOx, NOx and PM2.5 in the GB-PS, and to
recommend most-promising options.
Environment Canada
BMT Fleet Technology Ltd.
Report: Management Options for Marine Vessel Air Emissions
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
SOx Emission Control Area (SECA) Application: Needs Assessment
for the Pacific Coast of Canada
Marine vessel emissions
To assess the present state of knowledge regarding the Pacific coast of
Canada, as compared to the information requirements set out in Annex
VI for SECA applications ("gap analysis"). To propose a work program
to fill any information gaps that could prevent the assessment described
in Annex VI of the appropriateness of a SECA on the Pacific coast of
Canada, or that prevent the development of a strong application.
Environment Canada
Levelton Consultants Ltd.
Report: SOx Emission Control Area (SECA) Application: Needs
Assessment for the Pacific Coast of Canada
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Emission Reduction Options for Heavy-Duty Diesel Fleet Vehicles in
the Lower Fraser Valley
Clean Vehicles and Fuels
To provide guidance to the GVRD, its member municipalities, the
Greater Vancouver Transportation Authority and others on:
the most promising option(s) to reduce emissions from their existing
heavy-duty diesel vehicles, and
future purchases of fleet vehicles / engines and fuels.
GVRD, FVRD, BC Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection,
Environment Canada, Greater Vancouver Transportation Authority,
Clean Air Research Fund, Clean Energy
Levelton Consultants Ltd.
Report: Emission Reduction Options for Heavy Duty Diesel Fleet
Vehicles in the Lower Fraser Valley
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Air Toxics Emission Inventory and Evaluation
Coordinated Transboundary Science and Data
Produce an inventory of emissions of air toxics from all sources in the
Lower Fraser Valley Airshed in 2000, and forecast through 2025;
Evaluate risk to human health from air toxics in the Lower Fraser
Valley, using currently available data and methods; and
Recommend methods to improve the human health risk assessment
from air toxics in the Lower Fraser Valley and other regions.
EC (Vancouver office) and GVRD
Levelton Consultants Ltd
Report; Database - spatially distributed emission inventory and forecast.
Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Industrial and Energy Sector Air Emissions
Outlook
Notification of Major New Sources
To provide a description and outlook of the major industrial sectors that
are significant air emission emitters within the Georgia Basin-Puget
Sound International Airshed.
EC-PYR
Constable Associates
Report
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Title
Theme
Purpose
Partners
Author
Product
Case Study - BC Municipalities Biodiesel Pilot Project
Clean Vehicles and Fuels
Review the municipal field trial, and highlight issues that arose to inform
future users of biodiesel.
Part of Fraser Basin Council's (FBC) Biodiesel Market Development
Project. Partners include: FBC; Western Economic Diversification;
Natural Resources Canada; EC-PYR; Province of BC (Ministries of
Water, Land and Air Protection; Energy and Mines; and Agriculture);
GVRD; City of Vancouver; West Coast Reduction; VanCity Savings
Credit Union
Fleet Challenge British Columbia / Fraser Basin Council Society
Report
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