By Suzanne Galloway
Published June 2000
It was a sunny day in May for the Clean Air Festival, a good time to celebrate something residents of Waterloo Region have learned not to take for granted. Because of record smog levels over the past few summers, Canadian Geographic ranks Kitchener among Canada’s “smoggiest places”; the region is identified as number one for ground level ozone. Happily, there are many worthwhile organizations and agencies banding together to combat air concerns.
The Clean Air Festival held May 13 brought together a celebratory array of local initiatives. The diversity of participants denoted the complexity of air quality issues, but also showed that citizens can play a big role in improving local air quality.
The biggest contributor to poor air is the private automobile. Transportation 2000 and those opposed to the proposed Highway 7 presented alternatives such as carpooling and public transit. Grand River Transit had a presence, as did The People’s Car Co-op, a local car sharing organization. The Ontario Ministry of Environment was on hand to explain Drive Clean, new mandatory emissions testing for cars. Sprint Courier displayed their “clean air division”, a very sporty bike and trailer.
Cycling Associations and Recycle Cycles encouraged cycling as a pollution free and healthy mode of travel. A bike rodeo for children and Toronto Song Cycles, a choir on bikes helped enliven the atmosphere.
On the home front, the Residential Energy Efficiency Project (REEP) was on hand to celebrate its 1000th assessment. They advise homeowners on how to reduce their energy use while also saving money and improving corn-fort. The Citizens for Renewable Energy had information about renewable, non-polluting energy sources and how homeowners can buy this “green power” by paying a small premium on their energy bill. A live solar demonstration by a local supplier illustrated the capacity of this energy source. Equally important for clean air is reducing the use of chemical pesticides on lawns. Naturalized lawns also conserve our groundwater reserves and reduce the use of lawnmowers. (Such engines are grossly inefficient and release far more emissions per gasoline used than do cars).
All three mayors of the Region attended the Clean Air festival, attesting to the importance of air quality issues in Waterloo Region. With so many opportunities to make change, it is hopeful that many citizens will take actions to clear the air we all breathe.
