Interim Plan 2001 on Particulate Matter and Ozone: chapter 3


3.0 Outreach

Regulations and policies alone are not enough to achieve clean air for Canadians. It is also important to promote individual and collective actions to reduce air pollution. Governments have an obligation to provide regular information to the public, based on good science, so that Canadians can understand the health impacts of air pollution and how they can take steps to protect themselves.

Canadians are being engaged and informed through federal initiatives such as the following:

"We are also seeking to strengthen our investments in the science that is needed to move us forward..."
David Anderson, P.C., M.P.
Minister of the Environment

Possible future areas of action

Canadians are concerned about air pollution and want to do their part for clean air, but many are unsure what practical actions they should take to support that concern. SUVs are popular, there are more cars and light trucks on the roads than ever before, communities continue to expand the number of roads and grow far from workplaces and services.

Efforts to engage Canadians should target those who are concerned but not yet active in finding solutions; those who are most vulnerable to health effects from smog; and communities and networks that reach industry, public health and the voluntary sector.

An effective engagement program is required that balances raising national awareness with support for local communities. It would recognize that real change happens locally at the community level, and provide the tools, information and support that respond to community needs. On-line communications would be emphasized as an effective method of sharing knowledge with communities and supporting wise choices.

Partnerships are a key component of successful engagement. They should focus on industry leaders to promote incorporating sustainable practices. As well, a public health information program on air quality involving partnerships with key organizations would help spread the message about individual responsibilities for clean air. Other measures to promote better understanding of what individuals can do to achieve cleaner air include peer training sessions to increase understanding and capacity in the medical community, and work with industry groups to support community initiatives.

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