The decisions we make every day have an impact on emissions that contribute to poor air quality and climate change. The items we choose to purchase, the appliances we use (dryer versus hanging clothes, stove top versus kettle), and how we move around (car, bus, train, cycling, walking) all affect the air we breathe. Initiatives to reduce air emissions can also help reduce the greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change, and vice versa.
Climate Change |
Climate change is a long-term shift in climate measured by changes in temperature, precipitation, winds and other indicators. Climate change can involve both changes in average conditions and changes in variability, including changes in extreme conditions. A balanced amount of greenhouse gases keeps our planet habitable. However, since industrialization, greenhouse gases have increased by 40 per cent and are impacting our climate. As noted above, measures to reduce air emissions often have the co-benefit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. |
City Actions to Reduce Air and Greenhouse Gas Emissions |
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change recently stated that human influence on the climate system is clear. The atmospheric concentration of key greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide) is unprecedented in the last 800,000 years, with our fossil fuel driven economies and the increase in population to blame. |
Climate Change Adaptation |
Recognizing that climate change is already occurring and we are experiencing its effects, such as increased frequency of severe weather events, adaptation measures are necessary for city operations and services, including:
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Smog |
Smog is used to describe a mixture of pollutants primarily made up of ground level ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Other major components include:
These contaminants are released into the environment when we burn fossil fuels (to run vehicles, buildings and industries), through the evaporation of fuels and oil based paints, and as a result of natural processes. Smog can negatively impact human and ecological health. |
Additional Resources and Links |