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Air Pollution

Hazy skies blanket the landscape and ocean off the coast of British Columbia from wildfire smoke

Let the fresh air in

No matter where you live, air pollution is hard to escape. It’s all around us.

You can find air pollution in the exhaust from vehicles, in emissions from factory chimneys and coal-fired plants, and in the smoke from homes using coal or wood-fired stoves for heating and cooking.

More often than not, we worry about the quality of air outside, but did you know that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air? On top of that, the overwhelming majority of our time (up to 90 per cent) is spent indoors—at home, work, school or in other public buildings. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the pollutants in your home and take steps to improve your air quality. 

 

Learn more about the link between air pollution and cancer and what you can do to reduce your risk.

Pulp and paper factory off of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, British Columbia
​Air pollution and health

Poor air quality can lead to minor annoyances like itchy eyes. It can also cause or worsen more serious health conditions involving the lungs.Know the Science

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