Air Quality
Agreement
Progress Report
2020-2022
Canada - United States
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The International Joint Commission Requests Your
Comments on This Report
The Canada-United States Air Quality Agreement directs the International Joint Commission (DC) to invite
public comments on progress reports prepared by the Air Quality Committee and provide a synthesis of
comments to the Governments of Canada and the United States in order to assist them with implementing
the Agreement.
The DC is interested in your views on the draft 2022 Progress Report reflecting the Governments' important
work being carried out under the Agreement:
What do you think about the ongoing efforts of our two countries to address transboundary air quality?
¦ What issues do you think should have the highest priority?
* What do you think about the information provided in this report?
The DC invites you to send written comments on this draft progress report until August 31, 2023, using one of
the following methods:
1. Online at: (www.ijc.org/en/what/enqaqement/consultations)
2. Email at: (AirQuality@ijc.orq)
3. Mail at:
Canadian Section United States Section
Secretary, Canadian Section Secretary, U.S. Section
International Joint Commission International Joint Commission
234 Laurier Avenue West, 22nd Floor 1717 H Street NW, Suite 835
Ottawa (Ontario) K1P6K6 Washington, DC 20006
United States spelling is used throughout this report except when referring to Canadian titles.
ISSN: 1910-5223
Cat, No.: En85-1E-PDF
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and Climate Change Canada, 2023.
Aussi disponible en frangais.
Canada - United States Air Quality Agreement Progress Report 2020-2022
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 1
ACID RAIN ANNEX 2
Acid Deposition Trends 3
Acid Rain Commitments and Emission Reductions 4
SO2 Emission Reductions 4
NOx Emission Reductions 6
Preventing Air Quality Deterioration and Protecting Visibility 9
Emissions/Compliance Monitoring 11
OZONE ANNEX 12
Ambient Levels of Ozone in the Border Region 13
Emissions and Emission Trends in the PEMA 17
Actions to Address Ozone 21
SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION
AND RESEARCH 25
Emission Inventories and Trends 25
Scientific Cooperation 28
Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative 28
Collaborative Projects on Nitrogen and Sulfur Deposition 30
Science Information Exchange Workshops 31
Cooperation on Mobile Transportation Sources 31
Cooperation on Oil and Gas Sector Emissions 32
CONCLUSION 33
APPENDIX A:
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS 34
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LIST OF FIGURES
AND TABLE
FIGURES
Figure 1. 1990 Annual Non-Sea-Salt Sulfate Wet Deposition 3
Figure 2. 2019 Annual Non-Sea-Salt Sulfate Wet Deposition 3
Figure 3. 1990 Annual Nitrate Wet Deposition 3
Figure 4. 2019 Annual Nitrate Wet Deposition 3
Figure 5. Total Canadian SO2 Emissions, 1990-2020 4
Figured SO2 Emissions from CSAPR and ARP Sources, 1980-2020 6
Figure 7. Annual NOx Emissions from ARP and CSAPR Sources, 1990-2020 8
Figure 8. Annual Average Standard Visual Range (km) 2000-2004 10
Figure 9. Annual Average Standard Visual Range (km) 2016-2020 10
Figure 10. Ozone Annex Pollutant Emission Management Area (PEMA) 13
Figure 11. Ozone Concentrations along the United States-Canada Border (Three-Year Average
of the Fourth-highest Daily Maximum 8-hour Concentration), 2018-2020 14
Figure 12. Annual Average Fourth-Highest Daily Maximum 8-hour Ozone Concentration
for Sites within 500 km of the United States —Canada Border, 2001-2020 15
Figure 13. Average Ozone Season (May-September) 1-hour NOx Concentrations for Sites
within 500 km of the United States — Canada Border, 2001-2020 15
Figure 14. Average Ozone Season (May-September) 24-hour VOC Concentrations for Sites
within 500 km of the United States — Canada Border, 2001-2020 16
Figure 15. Canada NOx Emission Trends in the PEMA Region, 1990-2020 18
Figure 16. Canada VOC Emission Trends in the PEMA Region, 1990-2020 19
Figure 17. U.S. NOx Emission Trends in PEMA States, 1990-2020 20
Figure 18. U.S. VOC Emission Trends in PEMA States, 1990-2020 20
Figure 19. U.S. and Canadian National Emissions by Sector for Selected Pollutants, 2020 2 6
Figure 20. National SO2 Emissions in the United States and Canada from All Sources, 1990-2020 27
Figure 21. National NOx Emissions in the United States and Canada from All Sources, 1990-2020 27
Figure 22. National VOC Emissions in the United States and Canada from All Sources, 1990-2020 28
TABLE
Table 1. PEMA Emissions, 2020 17
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In 1991, the United States (U.S.) and Canada established an Air Quality Agreement (Agreement) to address transboundary
air pollution. The Agreement initially focused on reducing levels of acid deposition, or acid rain, in each country, and in
2000, the Agreement was amended to also address ground-level ozone, A bilateral Air Quality Committee, established
in the Agreement, is required to issue a report every two years, highlighting progress on the commitments included in
the Agreement and describing the continued efforts by both countries to address transboundary air pollution. This is
the 15thsuch progress report1 under the Agreement.
Working collaboratively under the Agreement, both countries have made remarkable progress over the last three
decades in reducing acid rain, controlling ozone in the transboundary region, improving the environment, and achieving
better air quality for residents of the United States and Canada. Significant reductions in emissions of sulfur dioxide
(SO2), nitrogen oxides (NO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have resulted from regulatory and non-regulatory
programs—some of which are specifically designed to meet commitments set in the Agreement—implemented by
both countries,
In addition, the Agreement has provided a mechanism, in the form of work plans, for cooperation on the development
and implementation of harmonized regulations to reduce vehicle and engine emissions and for addressing emissions
from the oil and gas sector,
In 2021, the Agreement marked its 30th anniversary. This Agreement has provided important opportunities for
collaboration between Canada and the United States and has achieved tangible improvements in the environment.
1 Due to delays from the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 arid 2022 editions of the progress reports have been combined into a single edition.
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§m
ACID RAIN ANNEX
Acid deposition, more commonly known as acid rain, occurs when emissions of SO2 and NOx, from power plants,
vehicles, and other sources, react in the atmosphere (with water, oxygen, and oxidants) to form various acidic
compounds that exist in either a wet form (rain, snow, or fog) or a dry form (gases and particles). These acidic
compounds can harm aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (particularly forests); affect human health; impair visibility;
and damage automotive finishes, buildings, bridges and monuments.
The Acid Rain Annex to the 1991 Agreement established commitments by both countries to reduce emissions of SO2
and NOx, the primary precursors to acid rain, from stationary and mobile sources, The Agreement also included
provisions aimed at prevention of air quality deterioration, protection of visibility, and continuous monitoring of emissions.
Reductions in SO2 and NO< emissions in both Canada and the United States between 1990 and 2019 have led to major
decreases in the wet deposition of sulfate and nitrate over the eastern half of the two countries, Implementation of various
regulatory and non-regulatory actions for more than two decades in Canada has significantly reduced emissions of
SO2 and NO,, and ambient concentrations, Implementation of similar programs, especially regulatory programs in the
electric power sector, has significantly reduced emissions of SO2 and NOx and ambient concentrations in the United
States as well.
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ACID DEPOSITION TRENDS
Wet deposition of sulfate and nitrate is measured by precipitation chemistry monitoring networks in Canada and the
United States. The annual measurement data, presented in kilograms per hectare (kg ha1), are the basis for binationai
spatial wet deposition maps. Starting in 2020, the global COVID-19 pandemic led to a prolonged period where many
precipitation samples in Canada were collected but not analyzed due to the requirement for federal employees,
including laboratory staff, to work from home. Analysis of these samples is underway, along with a quality control
study to assess the impact of long-term sample storage. Collection and analysis of samples in the United States
were less impacted by the pandemic due to generally shorter and state-specific public health measures; however,
data from more sites than usual did not meet the completeness criteria to be included in annual reporting for the
year 2020. Therefore, the most recent year of data presented here is for 2019.
Figures 1 and 2 show the spatial patterns of annual wet sulfate deposition of non-sea-salt sulfate (nssSO-r ), which is
measured sulfate with the contribution of sea salt sulfate removed, in 1990 and 2019, respectively, along with point
values at sites in less densely measured regions. Figures 3 and 4 show the patterns of wet nitrate deposition for
the same years. The lower Great Lakes region consistently received the highest wet deposition of both sulfate and
nitrate in the 30-year period. Sulfate deposition in 1990 exceeded 26 kg nssS042" ha1 over a large area of eastern
North America, In 2019, only a smail area on the Gulf Coast exceeded 10 kg nssSCV" harl Similarly, nitrate deposition
exceeded 19 kg NO. ha" in many parts of the northeastern United States and southern Ontario and Quebec in 1990,
and in 2019, nitrate deposition was less than 13 kg NOs" ha' throughout North America, except for a small area of
eastern Lake Erie, which is still below 16 kg ha1. The steepest declines in nitrate wet deposition occurred after the
year 2000 due to major MOx emission reductions in both countries,
Figure 1. 1990 Annual Non-Sea-Salt Sulfate Wet Deposition
Source: The Canadian Air and Precipitation Monitoring Network,
Alberta Precipitation Quality Monitoring Program (both at
https://doi.oro/10.18164/72beflbc-709a-4d57-99ea-6969b97283351
and the United States National Atmospheric Deposition Program
(http://nadp.slh.wisc. edu/1.
Figure 2. 2019 Annual Non-Sea-Salt Sulfate Wet Deposition
Source: The Canadian Air and Precipitation Monitoring Network,
Alberta Precipitation Quality Monitoring Program (both at
https://doi.ora/10.18164/72beflbc-709a-4d57-99ea-6969b9728335T
and the United States National Atmospheric Deposition Program
(http://nadp.slli.wi sc. edu/1.
Figure 3. 1990 Annual Nitrate Wet Deposition
Source: The Canadian Air and Precipitation Monitoring Network,
Alberta Precipitation Quality Monitoring Program (both at
https://doi.org/10.18164/72beflbc-709a-4d57-99ea-6969b97283351
and the United States National Atmospheric Deposition Program
(http://nadp.slh.wisc.edu/1.
Figure 4. 2019 Annual Nitrate Wet Deposition
Source: The Canadian Air and Precipitation Monitoring Network,
Alberta Precipitation Quality Monitoring Program (both at
https://doi.org/10.18164/72beflbc-709a-4d57-99ea-6969b97283351
and the United States National Atmospheric Deposition Program
(http://nadp.slh.wi sc.edu/1.
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ACID RAIN COMMITMENTS AND
EMISSION REDUCTIONS
SO2 Emission Reductions
* CANADA
Actions driving SO2 emission reductions include the implementation of the Canada-Wide Acid Rain Strategy for Post-2000,
which serves as the framework for addressing the issues related to acid rain. The goal of the strategy is to ensure that
the deposition of acidifying pollutants does not further deteriorate the environment in eastern Canada and that new acid
rain problems do not occur elsewhere in Canada,
Canada has met its commitments to reduce SO2 in the Agreement. In 20 202, Canada's total SO2 emissions were
approximately 651 thousand metric tons (716 thousand short tons3), about 80 percent below the national cap of
3.2 million metric tons (3.5 million short tons). The 2020 emissions level also represents a 78 percent reduction from
Canada's total SO2 emissions of 3.0 million metric tons (3.3 million short tons) in 1990 [see Figure 5].
Figure 5. Total Canadian SO2 Emissions, 1990-2020
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2022
Three industrial sectors make up the largest contribution of SO2 emissions in Canada: upstream oil and gas, which
includes the exploration and production of crude oil; coal-fired electric power generation; and non-ferrous mining and
smelting. These three sectors accounted for 70 percent of national SO2 emissions in 2020. The majority of overall
reductions in national SO2 emission levels can be attributed to the SO2 emission reductions from the non-ferrous refining
and smelting industry, which had decreases in emissions in the early 1990s, and again, from 2008 to 2020. The decrease
since 2008 can be attributed to preparation and implementation of pollution prevention plans by facilities, the installation
of new technology or processes at facilities, phase-out of coal-fired electricity, switch to low-sulphur fuels, the closure of
four major smelters in Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, and facilities achieving industrial emissions
requirements through environmental performance agreements. These industrial emissions requirements are part of
Canada's Air Quality Management System (AQMS).
2 Emissions trends for Canada presented in this report are from Canada's 2022 Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.
1 One metric ton is equal to 1.1 short tons.
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Although Canada has been successful in reducing these acidifying pollutants, many areas across Canada are still
exposed to concentrations that exceed the capacity of the soils and surface waters to neutralize the acidic deposition,
most notably in eastern Canada, Measures are being undertaken to reduce SO2 and NOx emissions from certain
industrial sectors as part of Canada's AQMS, which will also reduce the impact of acidifying pollutants on soils and
surface waters.
UNITED STATES
The United States has met its commitment to reduce SO2 emissions. The national Acid Rain Program (ARP), the regional
Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR), and the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR) were designed to reduce emissions of
SO2 (and NOx) from the electric power sector, Since 1995, SO2 emissions have fallen significantly under these programs, In
addition, the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), which went into effect in April 2015, achieved substantial
SO2 emissions reductions as an additional benefit to air toxics emissions reductions from the power sector, These
reductions occurred while the demand for electricity increased and were the result of continued increases in efficiency,
installation of state-of-the-art pollution controls, and the switch to lower emitting fuels, Most of the power sector emission
reductions since 2005 were from early-reduction incentives and stricter emission cap levels under emission reduction
programs developed to help attain and maintain National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ozone and fine
particulate matter (PM25). The CAIR SO2 emissions trading program began on January 1, 2010, and was replaced by
the CSAPR SO2 emissions trading program on January 1,2015. More detailed information about the CSAPRs program can
be found at www.eDa.Qov/csapr.
Electric generating units in the ARP emitted 778 thousand short tons (706 thousand metric tons) of SO2 in 2020, well
below the ARP's statutory annual cap of 8.95 million short tons (8.12 million metric tons). ARP sources reduced emissions
by 15.0 million short tons (13.6 million metric tons, or 95 percent) from 1990 levels and 16.5 million short tons (15.0 million
metric tons, or 95 percent) from 1980 levels [see Figure 6].
In 2020, sources in the CSAPR SO2 program and the ARP collectively reduced SO2 emissions by 10.4 million short tons
(9.4 million metric tons, or 93 percent) from 2000 levels, and 9.5 million short tons (8.6 million metric tons), or 92 percent
from 2005 levels (before implementation of CAIR and CSAPR). All ARP and CSAPR sources together emitted a total of
788 thousand short tons (715 thousand metric tons) of SO2 in 2020.
Annual SO2 emissions from sources in the regional CSAPR SO2 program alone fell from 7.7 million short tons (7.0 million
metric tons) in 2005 to 497 thousand short tons (451 thousand metric tons) in 2020, a 94 percent reduction. In 2020,
SO2 emissions were about 1.5 million short tons (1.3 million metric tons) below the regional CSAPR emission budget.
In addition to the electric power generation sector, emission reductions from other sources not affected by the ARP
or CSAPR, including industrial and commercial boilers and refining operations, have contributed to an overall reduction
in annual SO2 emissions. National SO2 emissions from all sources fell from 23.1 million short tons (20.9 million
metric tons) in 1990 to 1.8 million short tons (1,6 million metric tons) in 2020, a reduction of 92 percent,
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Figure 6. S02 Emissions from CSAPR and ARP Sources, 1980-2020
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Notes: For CSAPR units not in the ARP, the 2015 annual SO2 emissions were applied retroactively for each pre-CSAPR
year following the year in which the unit began operating. There are a small number of sources in CSAPR but not in ARP
Emissions from these sources comprise about 1 percent of total emissions and are not easily visible on the full chart,
Sources: U.S. EPA, 2022,
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NOx Emission Reductions
* CANADA
Canada has met its commitment to reduce NOx emissions from power plants, major combustion sources, and metal
smelting operations by 100,000 metric tons (110,000 short tons) below the forecasted level of 970,000 metric tons
(1.1 million short tons). This commitment is based on a 1985 forecast of 2005 NOx emissions.
Emissions of NOx from industrial sources, including from electric power generating units, totaled 687 thousand4 metric
tons (756 thousand short tons) in 2020. Transportation and mobile equipment sources contributed 49 percent of total
Canadian NOxemissions in 2020, with the remainder produced by the upstream oil and gas industry (31 percent), electric
power generating units (7 percent), and other sources, Canada continues to develop programs to further reduce NOx
emissions nationwide. Since 2016, Canada's Multi-Sector Air Pollutants Regulations have established mandatory national
standards for NOx emissions from industrial boilers, heaters, and stationary spark-ignition engines in major industrial
facilities; and NOx and SO2 emissions from cement manufacturing facilities. The regulations will significantly reduce
emissions that contribute to acid rain and smog. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) analysis predicts that
the regulations will result in a reduction of 2.0 million metric tons (2.2 million short tons) of NOx emissions in the first
19 years (equivalent to taking all passenger cars and trucks off the road for about 12 years). These regulations implement
industrial emission requirements that are a key element of Canada's AQMS.
4 Total includes NO emissions from the following sources: ore and mineral industry, oil and gas industry, electric power generation (utilities) and manufacturing.
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Beginning in January 2020, cement manufacturing facilities must limit their emissions of NOx and SO2. NOx emission
intensity limits for new stationary gaseous fuel-fired engines (> 75 kW) came into force in 2016. The phased implementation
of emission limits for existing stationary gaseous fuel-fired engines (> 250 kW) in oil and gas facilities started in 2021, with
the final limits in force by 2026. The regulations provide multiple compliance options for regulated entities to achieve the
limits. Finally, regulated limits were established for new and existing industrial gaseous fuel-fired boilers and heaters
(> 10.5 GJ/h). As of June 2019, emission intensity limits are fully in force for modern and transitional boilers and
heaters. Limits for pre-existing boilers and heaters are phased in based on their current classification. The higher and
high NOx emitting equipment must meet the limits by 2026 and by 2036, respectively, Most regulated facilities have
fulfilled the regulatory obligations required to date, including submitting the required annual reports.
UNITED STATES
The United States has met its commitment to reduce NOx emissions. To address NOx emissions, the ARP NOx program
requires emission reductions through a rate-based approach on certain coal-fired power plants, while CSAPR achieves
emission reductions through a market-based, emission trading program from fossil fuel-fired power plants.
Overall, NOx emissions have declined dramatically under the ARP, the former NOx Budget Trading Program (NBP),
the CAIR NOx program, and the CSAPR programs, with the majority of reductions coming from coal-fired units. Other
programs—such as regional and state NOx emission control programs—also contributed significantly to the annual
NOx emission reductions achieved by sources in 2020.
In 2020, sources in both the CSAPR NOx programs and the ARP reduced NOx emissions by 5.7 million short tons
(5.2 million metric tons) or 89 percent from 1990 levels, 4.4 million short tons (4.0 million metric tons) or 86 percent from
2000 levels, and 2.9 million short tons (2.6 million metric tons) or 80 percent from 2005 levels. Together, all ARP and
CSAPR sources emitted a total of 737 thousand short tons (669 thousand metric tons) of NOx in 2020 [see Figure 7],
Annual NOx emissions from sources in the CSAPR NOx programs alone fell from 2.3 million short tons (2.1 million metric
tons) in 2005 to 405 thousand short tons (367 thousand metric tons) in 2020, an 81 percent reduction. This is 664 thousand
tons (602 thousand metric tons), or 62 percent, below the CSAPR NOx annual program's 2020 regional budget of
1,069,256 tons (970 thousand metric tons). For more detailed information on the United States NOx programs, see
www. epa. aov/a i rma rkets.
In addition to ARP and CSAPR, other programs such as state and regional NOx emission control programs, also contributed
significantly to the NOx reductions that sources achieved in 2020. Annual NOx emissions from the power sector as well as
all other sources fell from 25.2 million short tons (22.8 million metric tons) in 1990 to 8.0 million short tons (7.2 million
metric tons) in 2020, a reduction of 68 percent,
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Figure 7. Annual NO, Emissions from ARP and CSAPR Sources, 1990-2020
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CSAPR NO units not in ARP
Notes: For CSAPR units not in the ARP, the 2015 annual NO, emissions were applied retroactively for each pre-CSAPR
year following the year in which the unit began operating. There are a small number of sources in CSAPR but not in ARP
Emissions from these sources comprise about 1 percent of total emissions and are not easily visible on the full chart,
Source: U.S. EPA, 2022,
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Preventing Air Quality Deterioration and Protecting Visibility
CANADA
Canada has continued to address the commitment to prevent air quality deterioration and ensure visibility protection
by implementing the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) and the Impact Assessment Act, 2019
and by following the principles of "continuous improvement" and "keeping clean areas clean". These principles underpin
Canada's AQMS and the associated Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS).
The British Columbia Visibility Coordinating Committee (BCVCC) continues to work towards completing a visibility
management framework for the Lower Fraser Valley (LFV) in southwest British Columbia, Membership of the committee
includes all air management agencies with responsibilities in that region. The BCVCC is currently preparing a summary
of the regional visibility pilot project, The summary will inform the development of a quantitative visibility goal for
the region as well as future efforts to develop visibility programs in other areas of British Columbia and Canada, The
pilot project report is expected to be completed in 2023 and will be posted on the Clear Air BC website
(www.clearairbc.ca/Paaes/default.aspx) when complete,
A near real time visibility index for four sites in the region is available to the public through the Clear Air BC website.
In 2021, the Fraser Valley Regional District adopted a new Air Quality Management Plan ("2021 09 24 AOMP - Final
reduced.pdf (Tvrd.caD that includes achieving excellent visual air quality as one of its four main goals that are the
drivers for air quality action in that portion of the LFV. Also in 2021, Metro Vancouver's Clean Air Plan
fwww.metrovancouver.ora/services/air-aualitv/AirOualitvPublications/Clean-Air-Plan-2021.pdfl renewed that area's
commitment to a visibility goal - increasing the amount of time that has excellent visual air quality.
UNITED STATES
The United States continues to address its commitment to air quality and visibility protection through several Clean
Air Act programs, including New Source Review (NSR) and the Regional Haze Program. The NSR program requires
that new or modified sources obtain pre-construction permits in areas that meet the National Ambient Air Quality
Standards (NAAQS) (i.e., attainment areas) and in areas that exceed the NAAQS (i.e., nonattainment areas).
Nonattainment NSR permits for major sources require the source to apply air pollution controls that represent the
lowest achievable emission rate (LAER) and obtain emissions offsets. Emissions offsets are actual emission reductions,
generally obtained from sources in the vicinity of a proposed source or modification, that offset the proposed emissions
increase from the proposed new or modified source and provide a net air quality benefit.
NSR permits for major sources in attainment areas are known as prevention of significant deterioration (PSD) permits
and require the source to apply air pollution controls that represent the best available control technology (BACT), and
demonstrate that the project's emissions will not cause or contribute to a violation of any NAAQS or PSD increments.
PSD permits also require protections of the air quality and visibility in Class I areas (i.e., national parks exceeding
6,000 acres and wilderness areas exceeding 5,000 acres) and an assessment of the impacts on soils, vegetation,
and visibility caused by pollution and growth resulting from the source or modification. The NSR program requires
pre-construction permits for smaller sources of air pollution by way of the minor NSR program. Requirements for
getting a minor NSR permit are generally less prescriptive than the requirements for a major NSR permit.
The Clean Air Act established the goal of improving visibility in the nation's 156 Class I areas and returning these areas
to visibility conditions that existed before human-caused air pollution. In January 2017, the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) issued a final rule updating the Regional Haze Program, including revising portions of the visibility
protection rule promulgated in 1980 and the Regional Haze Rule promulgated in 1999. The Regional Haze Program is
divided into iterative 10-year implementation periods with the goal of achieving natural conditions, The CAA requires
states to develop a long-term strategy for making "reasonable progress" toward the national visibility goal. The first
required plans, due in 2007, had to primarily address a one-time best available retrofit technology (BART) requirement
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that applied to certain older, larger stationary sources of visibility impairing pollutants. In addition, the first and
subsequent plans (2nd implementation period plans were due in 2021) must include measures necessary to make
reasonable progress toward the national goal. Additional information on EPA's Regional Haze Program can be found
at www.epa.QOv/visibilitv.
Figures 8 and 9 show the annual average "standard visual range" (the farthest distance a large, dark object can be seen
during daylight hours) within the United States for the period 2000-2004 and 2016-2020, respectively This distance
is calculated using fine and coarse particle data from the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments
(IMPROVE) network. Increased particle pollution reduces the visual range. Between 2000-2004 and 2016-2020, the
visual range increased throughout the United States with the largest increase occurring in the eastern United States.
The visual range under naturally occurring conditions without human-caused pollution in the United States is typically
50-90 miles (80-140 kilometers [km]) in the east and 110-150 miles (180-240 km) in the west. Additional information
on the IMPROVE program and visibility in U.S. National Parks can be found at www.vista.cira.colostate.edu/improve/.
Figure 8. Annual Average Standard Visual Range (km) 2000-2004
Source: U.S. NPS, 2022 (data from IMPROVE website: http://vlsta.cira.colostate.edU/iinprove/l
Figure 9. Annual Average Standard Visual Range (km) 2016-2020
Source: U.S. NPS, 2022 (data from IMPROVE website: httD://vista.cira.colostate.edu/iriwoye/l.
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Emissions/Compliance Monitoring
Commitments in the Agreement require Canada and the United States to apply continuous emissions monitoring or
methods of comparable effectiveness to certain electric utility units. Both countries meet these commitments by using
continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) and rigorous reporting programs. Canada and the United States
each monitor more than 90 percent of eligible SO2 emissions with CEMS,
CANADA
Canada continues to meet its commitment to monitor and estimate emissions of NOx and SO2 from new and existing
electric utility units with a capacity rating greater than 25 megawatts, CEMS, or other comparable monitoring methods,
have had widespread use in Canada's electric utility sector since the late 1990s, Currently, a majority of new and
existing base-load fossil steam plants and natural gas turbines with high emission rates operate CEMS technology.
Approximately 27 coal or coal to natural gas converted generating units are currently operating in Canada, Together
they represent the largest source of emissions from this sector, Out of these 27 units, 23 units have SO2 and NOx CEMS
installed. In addition, under Canada's National Pollutant Release Inventory, a mandatory reporting program, electric
power generating facilities are required to report their air pollutant emissions (including NOxand SO2) annually. CEMS
also serves as a recognized monitoring approach to demonstrate compliance with several aspects of the Multi-Sector
Air Pollutants Regulations,
UNITED STATES
EPA has developed detailed procedures to ensure that source owners or operators monitor and report emissions with
a high degree of precision, accuracy, reliability, and consistency, Most emissions of SO2, carbon dioxide, and NOx are
measured with continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS), which monitor important information such as the
amount of pollution emitted from a smokestack (pollutant concentration) and some emission flow rates, i.e., how fast
the emissions occur, are monitored using continuous emission rate monitoring systems (CERMS). In 2020, CEMS
monitored over 99 percent of SO2 emissions from CSAPR sources, including 100 percent from coal-fired units,
Additionally, certain large emission sources that are subject to rules promulgated before 1990 and that are equipped
with pollution control devices to meet emission limitations or standards without CEMS monitoring must comply with
the requirements under the Compliance Assurance Monitoring (CAM) rule. The CAM rule includes criteria that define
the monitoring, reporting, and record keeping that must be conducted by a source to provide a reasonable assurance
of compliance with emission limitations and standards. Rules promulgated after 1990 are to contain monitoring that
provides a reasonable assurance of compliance with emission limitations and standards. EPA requires owners or
operators of CEMS and CERMS to rigorously check and report on the completeness, quality, and integrity of monitoring
data. In addition to electronic audits, EPA conducts targeted field audits on sources that report suspect data.
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Ground-level ozone is a pollutant that forms when emissions of NOx and VOCs and other pollutants react in the
atmosphere in the presence of sunlight, Cars, trucks, buses, engines, industries, power plants and products such as
solvents and paints are among the major man-made sources of ozone-forming emissions. A key component of smog,
ground-level ozone, can cause or exacerbate respiratory illnesses, and is especially harmful to young children, the
elderly, and those suffering from chronic asthma and/or bronchitis. Exposure to ground-level ozone can damage
vegetation, reduce growth, and have other harmful effects on plants and trees. This can make them more susceptible
to attack from insects and diseases and reduce their ability to withstand droughts, windstorms, and man-made
stresses such as acid rain.
The Ozone Annex, added to the Agreement in 2000, commits the United States and Canada to address transboundary
ground-level ozone by reducing emissions of NOx and VOCs, the precursors to ozone, from stationary and mobile
sources and from solvents, paints, and consumer products. The commitments apply to a defined region in both
countries known as the Pollutant Emission Management Area (PEMA), which includes central and southern Ontario,
southern Quebec, 18 states, and the District of Columbia, where emission reductions are most important for reducing
transboundary ozone [see Figure 10].
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Figure 10. Ozone Annex Pollutant Emission Management Area (PEMA)
AMBIENT LEVELS OF OZONE
IN THE BORDER REGION
Ozone concentrations or ambient levels in the PEMA have gradually decreased since 1995. Similarly decreasing trends
in concentrations are found for both NOx and VOCs Regulatory and non-regulatory programs designed to meet emissions
commitments in the Ozone Annex, as well as programs designed to meet air quality management goals for Canada
and the United States individually, have contributed to the reductions in ozone concentrations,
Figure 11 illustrates ozone concentrations in the border region within 500 km (310 miles) of the United States-Canada
border The figure shows that higher ozone levels occur near the Great Lakes and along the United States eastern coast,
The lowest values are generally found in western and eastern Canada, Levels are generally higher within and downwind
of urban areas. The figure illustrates the regional pattern of ozone concentrations, Ozone is depicted in this figure as a
three year average (2018-2020) of the annual fourth-highest daily maximum 8-hour concentration, in parts per billion (ppb),
by volume. Only sites that met data completeness requirements (based upon 75 percent or more of all possible daily
values during the EPA-designated ozone monitoring seasons) were used to develop this map.
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Figure 12 shows the trend of ozone concentrations reported as the annual average fourth-highest daily maximum 8-hour
ozone concentration for sites within 500 km of the United States-Canada Border for 2001-2020. Trends of NOxand VOC
concentrations for the same time period are shown in Figures 13 and 14. Ambient concentrations of NOxand VOCs
reflect the significant reductions in emissions of these ozone precursors. Ozone concentrations reflect not only precursor
concentrations, but also meteorological conditions for ozone formation. While some of the lowest ozone concentration
levels are associated with cool, rainy summers (2004,2009,2014), ozone concentration levels are mainly due to the
emission reductions programs described in this report.
Figure 11. Ozone Concentrations along the United States-Canada Border (Three-Year Average of the Fourth-highest Daily Maximum
8-hour Concentration), 2018-2020
Note: Data are the 2018-2020 averages of annual fourth-highest daily values, where the daily value is the highest running 8-hour average for the day
Sources: Environment and Climate Canada NAPS Network Canada-wide Database, 2022; (httD://data.ec.ac,ca/data/air/monitor/national-air-
Dollution-surveillance-naDS-proaram/1. U.S EPA Air Quality System (AQS) Data Mart (www.epa.aov/airdatal.
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Figure 12. Annual Average Fourth-Highest Daily Maximum 8-hour Ozone Concentration for Sites within 500 km of the United States-Canada
Border, 2001-2020
Canada United States
Source: U.S. EPA and Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2022
Figure 13. Average Ozone Season (May-September) 1-hour N0X Concentrations for Sites within 500 km of the United States-Canada
Border, 2001-2020
Canada United States
Source: U.S. EPA and Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2022.
Canada - United States Air Quality Agreement Progress Report 2020-2022
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Figure 14. Average Ozone Season (May-September) 24-hour VOC Concentrations for Sites within 500 km of the United States-Canada
Border, 2001-2020
Canada United States
Note: Canadian VOC data for 2020 is not yet available due to delays associated with COVID lockdowns.
Source: U.S. EPA and Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2022
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EMISSIONS AND EMISSION TRENDS IN
THE PEMA
Table 1 shows 2020 Canadian and United States emissions in the PEMA, In the Canadian PEMA, the sectors that contribute
the most to the area's annual NOx emissions are on-road and non-road transportation. The sectors that contribute the most
to NOx in both the Canadian PEMA and the United States PEMA are transportation and industrial sources, The predominant
sectors that contribute to annual VOC emissions in the Canadian PEMA are solvent utilization processes and non-industrial
fuel combustion. Transportation and solvent utilization are the predominant sectors for VOC emissions in the United
States PEMA,
Table 1. PEMA Emissions, 2020
Emissions Category
2020 Annual
2020 Ozone Season
NOx
VOCs
NOx
VOCs
1000
Short
Tons
1000
Metric
Tons
1000
Short
Tons
1000
Metric
Tons
1000
Short
Tons
1000
Metric
Tons
1000
Short
Tons
1000
Metric
Tons
Canadian PEMA Region: Annual and Ozone Season Emissions
Industrial Sources
59
53
69
62
28
26
29
27
Non-industrial Fuel Combustion
40
36
66
60
12
10
9
8
Electric Power Generation
5
5
0
0
2
2
0
0
On-road Transportation
136
123
52
47
54
49
21
19
Non-road Transportation
113
103
64
58
56
51
25
23
Solvent Utilization
0
0
161
146
0
0
69
62
Other Anthropogenic Sources
3
3
80
73
2
1
41
37
Forest Fires
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Biogenic Emissions
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
TOTALS
355
322
492
446
153
139
194
176
TOTALS without Forest Fires
and Biogenics
355
322
492
446
153
139
194
176
U.S. PEMA States: Annual and Ozone Season Emissions
Industrial Sources
464
421
490
445
193
175
204
185
Non-industrial Fuel Combustion
271
246
146
132
113
103
61
55
Electric Power Generation
222
201
10
9
93
84
4
4
On-road Transportation
699
634
425
386
291
264
177
161
Non-road Transportation
535
485
364
330
223
202
152
138
Solvent Utilization
0
0
1,073
973
0
0
447
406
Other Anthropogenic Sources
50
45
392
356
21
19
163
148
Forest Fires
3
3
42
38
1
1
18
16
Biogenic Emissions
189
171
3,778
3,427
114
103
3,171
2,877
TOTALS
2,433
2,206
6,720
6,096
1,049
951
4,397
3,990
TOTALS without Forest Fires
and Biogenics
2,241
2,032
2,900
2,631
934
847
1,208
1,097
Note: Short tons and metric tons are rounded to the nearest thousand. Totals in rows may not equal the sum of the individual columns
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada and U.S. EPA, 2022,
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Figures 15 and 16 show Canadian NOx and VOC PEMA emission trends for the years 1990 through 2020. NOx and VOC
emissions have decreased in the PEMA over this period. The percent decrease in emissions from 1990 to 2020 for NOx
is 58 percent and for VOCs is 61 percent, For NOx, nearly all source categories show an overall decrease in emissions
with the greatest reductions originating from electric power generation, followed by industrial sources and on-road
transportation. On-road and non-road transportation contributed to the greatest portion of NOx PEMA emissions in 2020,
followed by industrial sources and non-industrial fuel combustion.
Over the same time period, each category of VOC sources shows an overall decrease with most of the reductions
coming from non-road transportation sources, on-road transportation sources and industrial sources, Solvent utilization
accounted for the greatest portion of VOC PEMA emissions in 2020 followed by other anthropogenic sources and
industrial sources,
Industrial Sources Non Industrial Fuel Combustion Electric Power Generation
On-Road Transportation Other Anthropogenic Sources Non-Road Transportation
Solvent Utilitsation
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2022.
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Figure 16. Canada VOC Emission Trends in the PEMA Region, 1990-2020
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2022
Figures 17 and 18 show United States PEMA emission trends for 1990 through 2020. There has been an overall trend of
emission reductions for NOx and VOCs, The percent decrease in emissions from 1990 to 2020 for NOx is 78 percent and
for VOCs is 68 percent, For NOx emissions, the on-road and non-road transportation sources account for the greatest
portion of the emissions in 2020, followed by fuel combustion for electrical power generation and industrial and non-
industrial boilers. The largest NOx emission reductions from these sources have occurred over the last 15 years.The
sharp increase in NOx emissions for on-road transportation in 2002 is due to a different estimation method beginning
with that year.
The greatest contributions of VOC emissions since 2012 are predominantly from solvent utilization and transportation
sources, Over the period shown in Figure 18, the largest VOC emission reductions have occurred in on-road mobile
sources and solvent utilization. While there is an overall decrease in VOC emissions, there have been some increases
for petroleum and related industries, including oil and gas production. Emission estimation methods and reporting for
these sources have also improved significantly in recent years.
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Figure 17. U.S. NO, Emission Trends in PEMA States, 1990-2020
Industrial Sources Non Industrial Fuel Combustion Electric Power Generation
On-Road Transportation Other Anthropogenic Sources Non-Road Transportation
Solvent Utilitsation
Source: U.S. EPA, 2022,
Industrial Sources Non Industrial Fuel Combustion Electric Power Generation
On-Road Transportation Other Anthropogenic Sources Non-Road Transportation
Solvent Utilitsation
Figure 18. U.S. VOC Emission Trends in PEMA States, 1990-2020
Source: U.S. EPA, 2022,
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ACTIONS TO ADDRESS OZONE
Canada and the United States continue to implement programs designed to reduce emissions of NOx and VOCs,
Emissions from power plants, vehicles and engines remain a focus of these programs.
CANADA
Canada is implementing a series of regulations to align Canadian emission standards for vehicles, engines, and fuels
with corresponding standards in the United States.
Four regulations which set emission performance standards for air pollutant emissions from on-road and off-road
vehicles are in effect, They include:
On-Road Vehicle and Engine Emission Regulations'
Off-Road Small Spark-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations;
* Off-Road Compression-Ignition (Mobile and Stationary) and Large Spark-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations; and,
¦ Marine Spark-Ignition Engine, Vessel, and Off-Road Recreational Vehicle Emission Regulations.
Regulations that have been subject to recent amendments are set out below.
Canada continues to work synergistically with the United States in administering and enforcing its vehicle and engine
emission regulations. Highlighting progress from prior reports, ECCC has aligned its regulations with the latest EPA Tier 3
standards for certain on-road vehicles as well as EPA Phase 3 emission standards for the control of both exhaust and
evaporative emissions from small spark-ignition engines. ECCC also adopted the Marine Spark-Ignition Engine, Vessel
and Off-Road Recreational Vehicle Emission Regulations. These emission regulations apply to outboard engines, inboard
engines, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, off-road motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. The standards align with
corresponding U.S. EPA rules.
Regulatory initiatives for gasoline include Sulphur in Gasoline Regulations and Benzene in Gasoline Regulations, which
have limited the level of sulfur and benzene content in gasoline. In addition, Sulphur in Diesel Fuel Regulations set
maximum limits for sulfur in diesel fuels. Sulfur in gasoline impairs the effectiveness of emission control systems and
contributes to air pollution. Reducing the sulfur content in gasoline enables advanced emission controls and reduces
air pollution.
In December 2020, ECCC published the Off-road Compression-Ignition (Mobile and Stationary) and Large Spark-Ignition
Engine Emission Regulations, These regulations incorporate the EPA Tier 2 emission standards for large spark-ignition
(LSI) engines, such as those used in forklifts and ice resurfacers, and the EPA Tier 4 emission standards for stationary
diesel engines, such as those used in fire pumps and back-up generators. Prior to these regulations, LSI engines and
stationary diesel engines were not subject to any emission standards in Canada, These regulations also repealed and
replaced the Off-Road Compression-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations, and combined the previous mobile diesel
engine standards together with new LSI engine and stationary diesel engine standards into one consistent framework.
These regulations apply to LSI engines and stationary diesel engines manufactured on or after June 4, 2021 and mobile
diesel engines of the 2006 and later model years must meet the applicable emissions standards in place at their time
of manufacture. The regulations will work to reduce air pollutant emissions from all three types of off-road engines.
In October 2022, ECCC published the Regulations Amending Certain Regulations Made Under the Canadian
Environmental Protection Act, 1999, The purpose of these amendments was to maintain alignment with the
corresponding technical amendments made by the EPA in their final rule entitled Improvements for Heavy-Duty
Engine and Vehicle Test Procedures, and Other Technical Amendments, Many changes made by the EPA were
automatically adopted in Canadian vehicle and engine emission regulations due to incorporation by reference.
However, some modifications were required in the Canadian context, such as modifying definitions and regulatory
text and updating some references to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). The amendments made minor
modifications to three of the vehicle and engine emission regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection
Canada - United States Air Quality Agreement Progress Report 2020-2022
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Act, 1999: the Heavy-duty Vehicle and Engine Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations, the On-Road Vehicle and
Engine Emission Regulations, and the Marine Spark-Ignition Engine, Vessel and Off-road Recreational Vehicle Emission
Regulations, The amendments also made modifications to the Off-road Compression-Ignition (Mobile and Stationary)
and Large Spark-Ignition Engine Emission Regulations to correct a regulatory misalignment with the EPA
regulations, including definitions, labeling, and maintenance instructions for certain large spark-ignition engines.
There were no changes made to the stringency of any emission standards that are currently in effect,
Currently, ECCC and the EPA are collaborating on initiatives to reduce emissions of air pollutants and greenhouses
gases (GHGs) further from on-road vehicles, with a view of increasing zero-emission vehicle deployment in both
countries, In February 2021, as part of the Roadmap for a Renewed Canada-U.S, Partnership, Canada's Prime Minister
and the U.S. President agreed to take aligned and accelerated policy actions to achieve a zero-emission vehicle future.
In March 2022, the Government of Canada released its 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan that outlines how the
Government proposes to set and achieve its climate targets. In order to support the switch to zero-emission on-road
vehicles and ensure their affordability and accessibility, the Plan outlines the Government's commitment to:
develop a regulated sales mandate to ensure that 100 percent of new passenger vehicles sold in Canada will be
zero emission by 2035, with interim targets of at least 20 percent by 2026 and 60 percent by 2030.
launch an integrated strategy to reduce emissions from medium-and heavy-duty vehicles with the aim of reaching
35 percent of total sales being zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2030; and
develop a regulation that will require 100 percent medium- and heavy-duty vehicle sales to be ZEVs by 2040 for
a subset of vehicle types based on feasibility, with interim 2030 regulated sales requirements that would vary for
different vehicle categories based on feasibility, and explore interim targets for the mid-2020s.
The transition to ZEVs will result in significant reductions in emitted air pollutants as well as GHGs.
The federal government also continues to address VOC emissions through various regulations. The Tetrachloroethylene
(Use in Dry Cleaning and Reporting Requirements) Regulations were published in March 2003 with the goal of reducing
tetrachloroethylene (PERC) use in dry cleaning in Canada to less than 1,600 (1,760 short tons) metric tons per year.
In 2019, dry cleaners reporting under the regulations used less than 300 metric tons (330 short tons) of PERC.
The Solvent Degreasing Regulations, which took effect in July 2003, required a 65 percent reduction in annual
consumption of trichloroethylene (TCE) and PERC from affected facilities by 2007. This usage has continued to decline.
Under the regulations, ECCC issues annual allowances (consumption units) for use of PERC or TCE to qualifying facilities.
Consumption units issued for 2020 represented a reduction of 89 percent for TCE and 88 percent for PERC relative to
the baseline.
ECCC has taken action to reduce VOC emissions from consumer and commercial products. The Volatile Organic
Compound (VOC) Concentration Limits for Automotive Refinishing Products Regulations and the Volatile Organic
Compound (VOC) Concentration Limits for Architectural Coatings Regulations were published in 2009. By 2016,
these two regulations had contributed to an estimated reduction in VOC emissions from surface coatings of 43 percent,
compared to 2004 levels.
In January 2022, the department published the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Concentration Limits for Certain
Products Regulations, The Regulations establish maximum VOC concentration limits and emissions potential for the
manufacture and import of over 130 categories and sub-categories of products, including personal care, automotive,
and household maintenance products, adhesives, adhesive removers, sealants, and caulks and other miscellaneous
products. Between 2024 and 2033, the Regulations are expected to result in 250,000 metric tons (275,000 short tons)
of VOC emission reductions.
The Code of Practice for the Reduction of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Emissions from Cutback and Emulsified
Asphalt came into effect in February 2017. The main objective of the Code has been to encourage the use of low
VOC-emitting asphalt products. It is anticipated that compliance with the Code will result in annual VOC emission
reductions of up to 5,000 metric tons (5,500 short tons) from the use of asphalt.
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ECCC has taken action to put in place requirements to limit VOC emissions from industrial facilities. In April 2018, ECCC
published Regulations Respecting the Reduction in the Release of Methane and Certain Volatile Organic Compounds
(Upstream Oil and Gas) which came into effect January 2020. These regulations introduce operating and maintenance
standards for the upstream oil and gas industry, ensuring that fugitive and venting emissions of hydrocarbon gas will
be reduced at oil and gas extraction facilities. In November 2020, the Government of Canada finalized the Reduction in
the Release of Volatile Organic Compounds Regulations (Petroleum Sector), to reduce emissions of VOCs from refineries,
upgraders, and certain petrochemical facilities. In May 2021, the Government of Canada published a discussion
document proposing a regulatory approach to control VOC emissions from the storage and transfer of petroleum
liquids. The proposed approach addresses emissions from large storage tanks, and from transfer racks at truck, rail
and marine terminals and other bulk storage facilities. In March 2022, the Government of Canada published a discussion
paper on further reducing methane emissions from Canada's oil and gas sector,
New CAAQS for fine particulate matter (PM25) and ground-level ozone, effective for the years 2015 and 2020, were
established as objectives under the CEPA 1999 by the federal government in 2013, having been approved by federal,
provincial, and territorial Ministers of the Environment. In 2017 new standards were established for SO2 and NOx, effective
for years 2020 and 2025. These health-and environment-based standards are regularly reviewed to ensure they are set
at the appropriate level, reflecting the latest scientific information and technological advances. A review of the 2020
ozone standard was completed in 2019 resulting in a more stringent standard for 2025 being established in June 2019.
A review of the PM25 standards is ongoing. The CAAQS are objectives underpinned by four air quality management
levels with thresholds that require increasingly more stringent action as the air quality in a given air zone approaches
the level of the standard.
UNITED STATES
The U.S. EPA has established NAAQS for six principal pollutants shown to be harmful to public health and the
environment, including ground-level ozone. In 2015, EPA revised the level of ozone NAAQS from 0.075 ppm to 0.070
ppm. When EPA establishes a new or revised NAAQS, the Clean Air Act directs EPA to designate all areas in the country
as attainment, nonattainment, or unclassifiable (insufficient information to support a nonattainment or attainment
designation). EPA completed initial designations for the revised NAAQS in 2018, with 52 areas designated as
nonattainment, Nineteen of these nonattainment areas are fully or partially located in the ozone PEMA,
Ozone nonattainment areas are subject to planning and emission reduction requirements as specified in the Clean Air
Act, The requirements and attainment dates vary according to the severity of the air quality levels in each area, State
plans must provide for expeditious attainment of the NAAQS, taking into account existing national emission reduction
programs (e.g., since 2000 EPA has finalized numerous emissions and fuel standards for cars, trucks, and nonroad
engines); adoption of reasonably available control measures on local sources in the area; and regional emission
reductions from programs designed to address interstate transport of air pollution that affects the ability of downwind
states to meet and maintain the NAAQS.
EPA has addressed interstate transport of air pollution contributing to ozone nonattainment through successive
multi-state programs designed to help downwind states attain and maintain ozone NAAQS (as well as other NAAQS):
the NOx State Implementation Plan (SIP) Call in 1998 (1979 1-hour ozone NAAQS), CAIR in 2005 (1997 8-hour ozone
NAAQS), CSAPR in 2012 (1997 8-hour ozone NAAQS), CSAPR Update in 2016 (2008 ozone NAAQS), and Revised
CSAPR Update in 2021 (2008 ozone NAAQS). The Revised Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR) Update for the 2008
NAAQS, published in April 2021, requires additional NOx emissions reductions relative to the CSAPR Update from
power plants in 12 states, Specifically, beginning with the 2021 ozone season, emission reductions are required at
power plants in these 12 states based on optimization of existing, already-installed selective catalytic reduction
(SCR) and selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) controls beginning in the 2021 ozone season, and installation or
Canada - United States Air Quality Agreement Progress Report 2020-2022
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upgrade of state-of-the-art NOx combustion controls beginning in the 2022 ozone season. Overall, these programs
have addressed regional interstate transport of ozone by requiring identified states to make reductions in NOx emissions
that contribute to ozone pollution in downwind states. These programs have contributed significantly to the ozone
season NOx reductions, enhancing public health and environmental protections regionally and for local communities,
In 2020, the CSAPR NOx ozone season program emissions were 31 percent below the regional emission budget of
337,677 tons (306,000 metric tons). Group 1 emissions totaled 24,041 tons (22,000 metric tons) and Group 2 emissions
totaled 313,626 tons (285,000 metric tons).
In addition to implementing existing United States vehicle, non-road engine, and fuel quality rules to achieve both
VOC and NOx reductions, EPA continues implementation and updating of New Source Performance Standards to
achieve VOC and NOx reductions from new and modified sources, Reductions of NOx emissions are also being
achieved through rules on solid waste incineration units and guidelines that impact new and existing incineration units.
In August 2021, President Biden issued Executive Order 14,037 on Strengthening American Leadership in Clean Cars
and Trucks. This Executive Order (EO) sets a goal that 50 percent of all new passenger cars and light trucks sold in 2030
be zero-emission vehicles. In addition, it directs EPA to consider beginning work on new multi-pollutant emissions
standards, including for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, for light and medium duty vehicles beginning with model
year 2027 and extending through and including at least model year 2030. It also directs EPA to consider beginning
work on a rulemaking under the Clean Air Act to establish new NOx standards for heavy-duty engines and vehicles
beginning with model year 2027 and extending through and including at least model year 2030, and new GHG
standards for these vehicles beginning as soon as model 2030. In line with the President's EO, on March 28, 2022,
EPA published a proposed rule that would set new, more stringent standards to reduce pollution from heavy-duty
vehicles and engines starting in model year 2027. The proposed standards would significantly reduce emissions of
smog-and soot-forming NOxfrom heavy-duty gasoline and diesel engines and set more stringent GHG standards for
certain commercial vehicle categories,
Canada - United States Air Quality Agreement Progress Report 2020-2022
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AND TECHNICAL
COOPERATION
AND RESEARCH
EMISSION INVENTORIES AND TRENDS
The United States and Canada have updated and improved their emission inventories and projections for a number of
important pollutants, including particulate matter less than or equal to 10 microns (PM10), PM25, VOCs, NOx, and S02, to
reflect the latest information available, In Canada, the emissions inventory data are for the year 2020, as published in
Canada's 2022 Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory. The United States emissions data are based on national and
state-level trend information from the 2017 National Emission Inventory fwww.epa.aov/air-emissions-inventories/
air-pollutant-emissions-trends-data).
Canada - United States Air Quality Agreement Progress Report 2020-2022
25
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Figure 19 shows the distribution of emissions by source category grouping for SO2, NOt. and VOCs.
Canadian SO2 emissions originate mostly from the industrial sources such as the non-ferrous refining and smelting
industry and the upstream oil and gas industry, and coal-fired electric power generation. The relative contribution
from electric power generation utilities is lower in Canada due to the large hydroelectric and nuclear capacity
in place.
SO2 emissions in the United States originate primarily from coal-fired combustion in the electric power sector and
from industrial boilers.
In Canada, non-road and on-road transportation sources account for the greatest portion of NO, emissions,
followed by industrial sources such as the upstream oil and gas industry.
Similarly, in the United States non-road and on-road vehicles account for the greatest portion of NOx emissions,
followed by industrial sources,
Solvent utilization and industrial sources contribute more than half the total VOC emissions in both Canada and
the United States.
Figure 19. U.S. and Canadian National Emissions by Sector for Selected Pollutants, 2020
U.S. S02 Emissions - 2020
Total: 1.7 million metric tons/year
1.8 million short tons/year
I On-Road transportation: 1%
I Non-Road transportation: 1%
I Industrial sources: 45%
I Non-Industrial fuel combustion: 2%
Electric Power Generation: 45ft
I Solent utilization: 0%
Other anthropogenic sources: 6%
Canadian S02 Emissions - 2020
Total: 0.7 million metric tons/year
0.7 million short tons/year
I On-Road transportation: 0%
I Non-Boad transportation: 1%
I Industrial sources: 72%
I Mon-lrxju^rial fud comb ustion: 1%
I Electric Power Generation: 26%
I Solvent utilization: 0%
Other anthropogenic sources: 0%
U.S. NOx Emissions - 2020
Total: 7.3 million metric tons/year
8.0 million short tons/year
I On-Road transportation: 30%
I ton-Road transportation: 24%
11ndustrialsources:28%
I Non-Industrial fuel combustion: 6%
j Electric Power Generation: 10%
I Solvent utilization: 0%
Otter anthropogenic sources: 3%
Canadian NOx Emissions - 2020
Total: 1.6 million metric tons/year
1.8 million short tons/year
I On-Road transportation: 22%
I Non-Road transportation; 30%
I Industrial sources : 37%
I fton-Industrialfuel combustion: 5%
Electric Power Generation: 6%
I Solvent utilization: 0%
Other anthropogenic sources: 0%
U.S. VOC Emissions - 2020
Total: 10.9 million metric tons/year
12.0 million short tons/year
I On-Road transportation: 11%
I Non-Road transportation: 9%
I Industrial sources: 25%
I Non-Industrial fuel combustion: 3%
I Electric Power Gen3ation:0%
I Solvent utilization: 25%
Other anthropogenic sources: 26%
Canadian VOC Emissions - 2020
Total: 1.5 million metric tons/year
1.6 million short tons/year
I On-Roadtra\spartetbn:9%
I Non-Ftoad transportation: 10%
I industrial sources 44%
I Non-Wiistiiaiue1cambust»n:8%
Etectric Power Gcner^k>n: 0%
I Sotoent uiizat»:n:t8%
Other anthropogenic sources: 11%
Notes: Emissions exclude natural sources (biogenics and forest fires).
Percentages may not add up to 100 due to rounding.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2022; U.S. ERft, 2022.
Canada - United States Air Quality Agreement Progress Report 2020-2022
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Figures 20, 21, and 22 show emissions trends from 1990 through 2020 in Canada and the United States, for SO2, NOx,
and VOCs, respectively, Both countries have seen major reductions in emissions,
In Canada, the reductions in SO2 emissions came from the non-ferrous smelting and refining industry, coal-fired electric
power generation, and the oil and gas industry, For NOx, the reductions were from coal-fired electric power generation
and transportation-related sources, The VOC reductions came from transportation-related sources such as off-road
and on-road vehicles and the manufacturing industry.
In the United States, the reductions in SO2 emissions came in all source categories, especially electric power generation
and industrial sources, Reductions in NOx emissions came from transportation and electric power generation. Reductions
in VOC emissions came from transportation as well as non-industrial fuel combustion.
Figure 20. National SO2 Emissions in the United States and Canada from All Sources, 1990-2020
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Figure 21. National N0X Emissions in the United States and Canada from All Sources, 1990-2020
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Source: U.S. EPA and Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2022
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Figure 22. National VOC Emissions in the United States and Canada from All Sources, 1990-2020
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SCIENTIFIC COOPERATION
In addition to emissions reductions and ozone goals, the United States and Canada have committed to numerous
areas of scientific cooperation. Many of these projects are longstanding and have promoted mutual learning on
important topics. Projects that are highlighted in this report include: the Air Quality Model Evaluation International
Initiative (AQMEII), collaborative projects on nitrogen and sulfur deposition, science information exchange workshops,
cooperation on mobile transportation sources, and cooperation on oil and gas sector emissions,
Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative
Since its start in 2008, the Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative (AQMEII) has been coordinated by
the European-Commission Joint Research Center (JRC) and the EPA, The primary goal of this project is to
promote the collaboration of the European and North American regional scale air quality modeling communities on
evaluation of air quality models. The key elements driving the AQMEII process are regular, dedicated workshops; the
organization of international model evaluation studies; and the dissemination of findings from these studies in the
peer-reviewed literature.
To date, AQMEII has completed three phases of collaborative model evaluation and intercomparison activities and
the fourth phase is currently underway, These collaborations involved a total of 37 groups from 17 countries, Besides
co-chairing AQMEII with the JRC, EPA also contributes Community Multiscale Air Quality Modeling (CMAQ) simulations
to these collaborative activities, allowing comparison of various aspects of CMAQ to other state-of-science regional air
quality models used by the North American and European modeling communities, ECCC has contributed simulations
using its AURAMS (AQMEII-1 and GEM-MACH models (AQMEII-2, AQMEII-4)), as well as contributing to the design of
the study protocols through participation in the AQMEII steering committees,
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In the first phase of AQMEII (2010-2012), chemical transport models were applied by different groups over the North
American and European continents and extensively evaluated based on the comprehensive model evaluation framework
presented by Dennis et al.5This framework promotes a gradual and fit-for-purpose multi-stage evaluation process that
includes operational, diagnostic, dynamic, and probabilistic (i.e., uncertainty) evaluation. While all these model
evaluation modes were employed in Phase 1, most of the contributions focused on operational and probabilistic
evaluation as noted in Schere et al.6, who reflected on lessons learned from that activity,
Phase 2 of AQMEII (2012-2014) focused on applying and evaluating on-line coupled or integrated chemistry transport
models and meteorological models. Such modeling systems attempt to close some or all of the feedback loops that
exist between atmospheric dynamics and composition. A key feature of AQMEII-2 was a detailed evaluation of the
impacts of air pollution on weather and the skill of fully coupled models on weather forecasts7 8, The model evaluation
framework presented by Dennis et al.9 also formed the basis for the work under AQMEII Phase 2. Compared to Phase
1, contributions covered a fuller range of this framework, most notably diagnostic evaluation as well as some aspects
of dynamic and probabilistic evaluation.
Some of the key findings from Phase 2 of AQMEII included:
It is important to include interactions between meteorology and chemistry (especially aerosols and ozone) in
online coupled models;
Aerosol indirect and direct effects often counteract each other - direct effects are weaker on the annual scale;
The aerosol indirect effect (cloud microphysics implementation) is a prime cause of model differences;
The representation of aerosol indirect effects needs to be further developed and improved in online coupled
models; and
Inter-model variability typically is greater than the feedback effects simulated with a given model. This last
finding implies that factors other than feedback effects such as emissions, boundary conditions, and process
representations of chemistry and/or transport remain the key determinants for overall model performance.
Phase 3 of AQMEII (2014-2018) was aimed at applying and comparing modeling techniques to provide information on
the impact of long-range transport on regional air quality. Modeling this phenomenon requires representing relevant
processes at hemispheric-to-regional scales, either by using global or linked global-regional scale modeling systems,
AQMEII contributed to coordinated modeling exercises to apply and intercompare these modeling approaches in
partnership with the Task Force on Hemispheric Transport of Air Pollution (HTAP) and the Model Intercomparison
Study for Asia (MICS-Asia). Results were published in the journal Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics in a special
issue entitled "Global and regional assessment of intercontinental transport of air pollution: results from HTAP, AQMEII
and MICS"10 The special issue contains publications that investigate various aspects of modeling intercontinental
transport of air pollution such as publications evaluating the joint HTAP, AQMEII and MICS modeling experiments,
publications developing new methodologies to assess intercontinental transport or air pollution, and publications
describing and evaluating observational and emission data sets used to study intercontinental transport.
5 Dennis, R, Fox,T, Fuentes, M, ei al A framework for evaluating regional-scale numerical photochemical modeling systems. Environ. Fluid Mech. 10,471-489 (2010).
https://doi.ora/10.1007/sl0652-009-9163-2
6 Schere, K, Vautard, R,( Solazzo, E,; Hogrefe, C,; and Galmarini, S, Results and Lessons Learned from Phase 1 of the Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative (AQMEII). EM
(Pittsburg, Pa). July, 30-37, (2012): 30-37, (2012).
7 Makar, PA, Gong, W, Milbrandt, J,, ei al Feedbacks between air pollution and weather, part 1: Effects on weather Atmos, Environ., 115, 442-469, (2015).
https: //doi. org/10.1016/i.atmosenv. 2014.12.003
8 Makar, PA,, Gong, W,( Hogrefe, C,( ei al Feedbacks between air pollution and weather, part 2: Effects on chemistry, Atmos, Environ. 115,499-526, (2015).
https: //doi. org/10.1016/i.atmosenv. 2014.10.021
3 Dennis, R, Fox,T,( Fuentes, M, ei al A framework for evaluating regional-scale numerical photochemical modeling systems. Environ. Fluid Mech. 10,471-489 (2010).
https://doi.org/10.1007/slQ652-009-9163-2
10 Available at http://www.atmos-chem-phvs.net/special issue390.html
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Phase 4 of AQMEII focuses on performing systematic intercomparisons of atmospheric deposition estimates from a
variety of modeling systems used in the U.S. and Europe. A Steering Committee was formed in 2018 and has conducted
an analysis of the aspects to be considered in the planned evaluation activities. The Steering Committee included
representatives from ECCC and EPA, The analysis performed by the Steering Committee included a harmonization of
the nomenclatures (for example, making sure that a specific definition of a resistance or conductance would comprise
the same processes across different models, since no common nomenclature exists in general and across schemes),
a harmonization of the reported land use categories to make sure that sophisticated land descriptions could be
comparable with less sophisticated ones, and a determination of variables and parameters which can be used to
represent equivalent deposition-related pathways across models with different deposition formulations. Study
protocols were released in the summer of 2019, and most but not all model simulations were completed by the summer
of 2021. Analysis of these simulations has been initiated and a few additional simulations are still being performed and
will be included in the final analysis, To complement the grid model intercomparison, AQMEII4 also includes a box
model intercomparison of ozone dry deposition schemes at the location of eight flux measurement sites. Detailed
observational data to drive and evaluate the box models at these sites has been obtained and shared with participating
groups. A technical note describing the AQMEII4 grid model intercomparison has been published11 in a dedicated
special issue12 and additional manuscripts describing results of both the grid model and complementary box model
analyses are expected to be submitted to this special issue. Both ECCC and EPA are contributing simulations and
analyses to the grid and box model intercomparison aspects of AQMEII4. It is anticipated that results from this activity
will help more robustly characterize the uncertainties in current estimates of deposition fluxes, identify key knowledge
gaps, and study implications for the use of these estimates for ecological assessments.
Collaborative Projects on Nitrogen and Sulfur Deposition
The atmospheric deposition of nitrogen, sulfur, and other chemical species to underlying surfaces is an important
exposure pathway that can contribute or lead to the degradation of air, land, and water quality as well as reductions in
the benefits humans may derive from ecosystems, Understanding the processes and outcomes associated with
atmospheric deposition is needed to characterize progress toward meeting targeted reductions in deposition in the
U.S. and Canada,
Scientists at the U.S. EPA and ECCC actively participate in the National Atmospheric Deposition Program's (NADP)
Total Deposition (TDep) Science Committee, The mission of TDep is to improve estimates of atmospheric deposition by
advancing the science of measuring and modeling atmospheric wet, dry, and total deposition of species such as
sulfur, nitrogen, and mercury. TDep provides a forum for the exchange of information on current and emerging
issues within a broad multi-organization context including atmospheric scientists, ecosystem scientists, resource
managers, and policy makers. One of the goals of the NADP's TDEp Science Committee is to provide estimates of
total sulfur and nitrogen deposition for use in critical loads and other ecological assessments.
In 2019, TDep members and collaborators issued a white paper - Science Needs for Continued Development of Total
Nitrogen Deposition Budgets in the United-States13. This document describes the current state of the science and
remaining knowledge and data gaps related to improving measurements and models of reactive nitrogen deposition
and better understanding sources of reactive nitrogen to support review of the U.S. secondary NAAQS and further
develop critical loads as a framework for managing deposition of nutrients and acidity. Though focused on the U.S.,
this document can serve as a roadmap for researchers and policy makers across North America.
11 Galmarini, S,; Makar, P, Clifton, 0 E,; ei al Technical note: AQMEII4 Activity 1: evaluation of wet and dry deposition schemes as an integral part of regional-scale air quality models,
Atmos, Chew. Phys,, 21,15663-15697. https://doi.ora/10.5194/acp-21-15663-2021.2021,
12 Available atwww.atmos-chem-phvs.net/special issuell30.html.
13 Available at https://nadp.slh.wisc.edu/white-paper/
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EPA and ECCC scientists are continuing to collaborate on projects that combine network measurement data and air
quality models to estimate total deposition. A comparison of the U.S. product from TDep with results from the Canadian
project ADAGIO (Atmospheric Deposition Analysis Generated by optimal Interpolation from Observations) is planned.
This comparison will support the goal of combining the results from the two approaches to obtain one set of deposition
maps for North America, The measurement-model fusion approaches used by the U.S. and Canada, as well as Sweden,
are now leading the way for the use of measurement-model fusion on a global scale, Scientists from the TDep and
ADAGIO projects are members of the steering committee for a Measurement-Model Fusion for Global Total Atmospheric
Deposition initiative sponsored by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and jointly contributed to a recent
publication outlining the initiative14. EPA and ECCC scientists also collaborate as members of the WMO Science
Advisory Group for Total Atmospheric Deposition (SAG-TAD). Over the next few years, this SAG will focus on developing
documentation to guide WMO in better characterizing dry deposition of nitrogen, sulfur, and ozone for global
measurement-model fusion.
Much of the collaborative work discussed above was summarized in an article titled, Ongoing U.S.-Canada Collaboration
on Nitrogen and Sulfur Deposition in the Air and Waste Management Association's EM magazine15. This article,
co-authored by Canadian and U.S. scientists, was included in the June 2019 special issue highlighting cross-border
environmental issues highlighting. It provided an overview of the past, current and planned activities related to
deposition, such as monitoring network and modelling intercomparison studies, cooperation on measurement-model
fusion projects as described above and sharing data to improve satellite estimates of reactive nitrogen dry deposition.
Science Information Exchange Workshops
Recognizing and building from successful Canadian/U.S, scientific collaborations, Subcommittee 2 (Scientific
Cooperation) of the U.S-Canada Air Quality Committee initiated a pilot series of science information exchange
workshops in 2021. The goals of these workshops were to share knowledge about new developments and key
advances in science topics of common interest, to enhance scientific collaborations, and strengthen connections
with Subcommittee 1 (Program Monitoring and Reporting/Policy).
Three workshops were held in 2021 focused on: (1) impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on air quality; (2) wildland fires;
and (3) emerging pollutants/sources of increased interest. Specific technical, policy, and managerial staff were invited
to listen to brief presentations provided by U.S. EPA, ECCC, and Health Canada staff and to engage in focused
discussions recognizing the common air quality-related challenges that the U.S. and Canada face.
The pilot science information exchange workshops received positive feedback and continued in 2022. The second
year of workshops will focus on expanding the discussions between both the technical and policy staffs in a follow-up
workshop on wildland fires as well as one on a new topic - ammonia.
14 Fu, J.S, Carmichael, G R, Dentener, F, ei a Improving Estimates of Sulfur, Nitrogen, and Ozone Total Deposition through Multi-Model and Measurement-Model Fusion
Approaches. Environ. Sci. Technol. 56, 2134-2142 (2022). https://doi.ora/10.1021/acs.est.lc05929
15 Schwede, D.; Cole, A.; Vet, R.; Lear, G, Ongoing US-Canada collaborations on nitrogen and sulfur deposition. EM (Pittsburgh, Pa.), June, 1-5 (2019)
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.aov/Dmc/articles/PMC7923747/.
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COOPERATION ON MOBILE
TRANSPORTATION SOURCES
There is a long history of collaboration between ECCC and the EPA to reduce transportation emissions, largely fostered
by the framework of the Agreement. ECCC and the EPA have jointly developed a work plan supporting this ongoing
collaboration, Canada has historically aligned federal regulations, emission standards and test procedures with those of
the EPA for the transportation sector, This approach provides efficiencies for regulators and industry while supporting the
competitiveness of Canadian manufacturers given the highly integrated nature of the North American market. This
aligned regulatory approach also ensures long-term regulatory certainty for industry, while minimizing regulatory burden
on organizations.
The resulting alignment enables Canada and the U.S. to collaborate further on compliance programs to maximize
efficiencies in administration of the programs in both countries, For instance, the EPA and ECCC share information
and closely coordinate vehicle and engine compliance verification testing programs between their laboratories in
Ann Arbor, Michigan and Ottawa, Ontario.
The EPA and ECCC also coordinate research and testing projects to inform regulatory development. This collaboration
minimizes testing overlap and improves the breadth of compliance monitoring, resulting in program efficiencies in
both organizations. The two agencies are currently working on initiatives to further reduce emissions from the on-road
sector, with an aim to increase the deployment of ZEVs in both countries, ECCC recognizes the importance of
regulatory alignment and will continue to work closely with the EPA to align emission standards and coordinate their
implementation.
Moreover, Canada-U.S, cooperation continues on the international stage, specifically as part of the World Forum for the
Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP29). ECCC and the EPA continue to share information and consolidate
resources to bring a North American perspective to the global standards-setting process for emissions. This collaboration
also expands to work within the Transport Task Group, an international working group of G20 countries and their
neighbors that participate in information sharing on best practices to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency in
the transport sector, Canada is also a member of the ZEV Transition Council that is currently co-chaired by the U.S. and
the United Kingdom.
COOPERATION ON OIL AND GAS
SECTOR EMISSIONS
In November 2015, a work plan between the EPA and ECCC was approved under the Agreement to support collaboration
on oil and gas sector emissions. The oil and gas work plan has facilitated ongoing technical discussions between the
two countries on a range of oil and gas issues, including developing equipment standards, addressing regulatory
requirements and emissions associated with venting and flaring, designing leak detection and repair programs,
fence-line monitoring at refineries, and the sharing of information through webinar discussions on our respective
GHG inventory and reporting programs. The work plan also served as the foundation for developing joint commitments
to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector,
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Canada and the United States continue to meet their commitments in the 1991 Agreement. Since the establishment
of the Agreement, both countries have made significant progress in reducing acid rain and controlling ozone in the
transboundary region.
Despite the results achieved under the Agreement,, the pollutants covered by the Agreement (SO,; NOx, VOCs) remain
a concern and continue to have significant impacts on human health and the environment in both countries, Continued
bilateral efforts are needed to reduce the transboundary impact of these pollutants and to ensure that transboundary
air pollution does not affect each country's ability to attain and maintain its ambient air quality standards for pollutants
such as ozone and PM2 5 or to protect the health and environment of its residents.
Canada and the United States are currently undertaking a review and assessment of the Agreement to assess: if
the Agreement is meeting its current objectives; whether the commitments, including emission reduction targets and
measures in the Agreement remain appropriate for Canadian and United States policy and science needs; and
determine if new commitments or measures would be appropriate. Based on the results of the review and assessment,
both countries may consider modification of the Agreement and associated policies, programs, or measures.
The Agreement provides a formal yet flexible vehicle for addressing transboundary air pollution and as such provides
a framework under which the two countries continue to cooperate to address ongoing, emerging, and future air
quality issues.
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APPENDIX A:
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
AND ACRONYMS
ADAGIO Atmospheric Deposition Analysis Generated by optimal Interpolation from Observations
ARP Acid Rain Program
Agreement Air Quality Agreement
AQMEII Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative
AQMS (Canada) Air Quality Management System
BACT Best Available Control Technology
BART Best Available Retrofit Technology
BCVCC British Columbia Visibility Coordinating Committee
CAM Compliance Assurance Monitoring
CAAQS Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards
CAIR Clean Air Interstate Rule
CEM Continuous Emissions Monitoring
CEPA1999 Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999
CERMS Continuous Emission Rate Monitoring System
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CMAQ Community Multiscale Air Quality Model
CSAPR Cross-State Air Pollution Rule
ECCC Environment and Climate Change Canada
EO Executive Order
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
GHG greenhouse gas
IMPROVE Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments
JRC European Commission Joint Research Centre
kg ha1 kilograms per hectare
kW kilowatts
LAER Lowest Achievable Emission Rate
LFV Lower Fraser Valley
LSI large spark-ignition engine
MATS Mercury and Air Toxics Standards
NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards
NADP National Atmospheric Deposition Program
NAPS National Air Pollution Surveillance
NBP NOx Budget Trading Program
NO2 nitrogen dioxide
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N0s
nitrate
NOx
nitrogen oxides
NO„SIP
NOx State Implementation Plan
nssS042
non-sea-salt sulfate
NFS
National Park Service
NSR
New Source Review
PEMA
Pollutant Emission Management Area
PERC
tetrachloroethylene
pm2.
particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 microns, known as fine particles
PM10
particulate matter less than or equal to 10 microns
ppb
parts per billion
ppm
parts per million
PSD
Prevention of Significant Deterioration
SAG-TAD
Science Advisory Group for Total Atmospheric Deposition
SCR
selective catalytic reduction
SNCR
selective non-catalytic reduction
SO
sulfur oxides
so2
sulfur dioxide
S042
sulfate
TDep
National Atmospheric Deposition Program) Total Deposition Science Committee
TCE
trichloroethylene
VOCs
volatile organic compounds
WMO
World Meteorological Organization
ZEV
zero-emission vehicle
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