The Canadian Lung Association (CLA) congratulates the Minister of Environment and Climate Change today as the Ministry announces a new suite of regulations that will reduce traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) attributed to light-duty vehicles.
CLA recently polled Canadians and found that poor air quality and worsening pollution were affecting the health of more than one-third of respondents. Almost 80% were concerned specifically with how traffic emissions are affecting our air quality, and 84% supported the prioritization of solutions that address air quality. Today's announcement does just that, with potential to significantly reduce the amount of TRAP affecting the lungs of Canadians.
The health impacts of TRAP are well documented: TRAP is responsible for over 200,000 asthma symptom days and 2.7 million acute respiratory symptom days every year across Canada. TRAP disproportionately affects the health of those living closest to major roadways, children, the elderly and those living with respiratory conditions. "Although anyone with lungs should be breathing a sigh of relief," says Sarah Butson, Senior Director of Public Policy, "as these regulations will benefit Canadians of today and of generations to come. We hope the Canadian government continues to reduce emissions across all types of vehicles to further reduce the harms to our respiratory health."
