Air pollutant emissions

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Air pollution problems, such as smog and acid rain, result from the release of pollutants into the atmosphere. These pollutants can affect Canadians' health, the environment, buildings, structures and the economy. The majority of these pollutants are released through human activities, such as transportation, the burning of fuels for electricity and heating, and a variety of industrial activities. The indicators on sulphur oxides (SOX), nitrogen oxides (NOX), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), ammonia (NH3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and black carbon, a component of PM2.5, report emissions released through human activities.

The latest year reported in the indicators (2021) was marked by the 2nd year of the COVID-19 pandemic. This coincides with observed emission decreases between the years 2019 and 2021 for almost all pollutants with the exception of NH3. The long-term trends presented must be interpreted with caution as the economic slowdown influenced the results.

National

National air pollutant trends

This section presents a summary of Canada's emissions of 6 key air pollutants between 1990 to 2021 along with highlights of the main sources and provincial and territorial distributions for 2021. Detailed analysis by pollutant, including black carbon, along with information on emissions from 3 of the largest source sectors in Canada is presented following the indicators.

Key results

  • In 2021, emissions of 5 key air pollutants were lower than in 1990:
    • SOX 79% lower
    • NOX 41% lower
    • VOCs 39% lower
    • CO 65% lower
    • PM2.5 12% lower
  • Emissions of NH3 were 25% higher in 2021 than in 1990

Air pollutant emissions, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Air pollutant emissions, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Air pollutant emissions, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Sulphur oxides
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Nitrogen oxides
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Volatile organic compounds
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Ammonia
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Carbon monoxide
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Fine particulate matter
(percentage change from 1990 level)
1990 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
1991 -7.1 -2.9 -1.1 -0.8 -2.7 -3.1
1992 -11.1 -0.1 0.3 2.4 -3.6 -5.2
1993 -14.0 3.7 4.3 3.5 -2.5 -6.6
1994 -21.0 10.3 6.8 7.2 -2.0 -4.5
1995 -16.6 13.3 9.4 13.9 -0.1 -8.0
1996 -16.4 16.6 11.6 18.0 -2.7 -7.3
1997 -18.2 21.5 11.2 19.3 -5.3 -5.1
1998 -19.4 22.1 11.3 19.4 -7.8 -16.0
1999 -22.7 22.4 9.5 18.1 -9.8 -15.1
2000 -22.5 20.3 9.2 20.4 -11.9 -17.5
2001 -23.1 14.6 5.8 20.4 -14.8 -18.9
2002 -24.6 13.0 5.0 22.5 -16.4 -23.4
2003 -27.0 11.5 2.5 21.5 -20.4 -23.3
2004 -26.6 4.9 -0.7 25.0 -26.5 -25.4
2005 -30.3 0.6 -0.2 24.0 -31.7 -25.5
2006 -37.0 -6.2 -5.9 21.2 -37.1 -25.0
2007 -38.5 -6.6 -8.7 22.2 -43.5 -20.0
2008 -44.6 -10.2 -12.3 20.1 -46.8 -16.3
2009 -53.4 -16.0 -18.6 15.9 -49.0 -23.4
2010 -57.0 -15.8 -19.9 13.7 -48.3 -19.1
2011 -60.1 -19.9 -23.0 12.9 -51.6 -16.5
2012 -60.5 -24.7 -22.5 16.9 -54.0 -10.2
2013 -60.9 -26.7 -21.2 20.3 -54.8 -9.3
2014 -62.6 -28.4 -21.5 18.0 -57.6 -9.6
2015 -64.7 -31.3 -25.4 18.5 -59.1 -9.0
2016 -65.4 -34.7 -29.8 18.7 -59.0 -9.4
2017 -68.5 -33.6 -30.2 16.0 -59.8 -9.2
2018 -73.3 -35.2 -29.1 20.2 -60.8 -8.6
2019 -76.4 -36.1 -30.9 20.4 -61.8 -8.6
2020 -78.4 -41.8 -39.0 23.6 -65.5 -13.3
2021 -78.7 -41.3 -39.0 24.8 -64.8 -12.1

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: This indicator reports emissions of 6 key air pollutants from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. Emissions from black carbon, a component of PM2.5, are also not included. Consult the black carbon section for a detailed analysis of the pollutant or the interactive figures to explore the national results and emissions from black carbon in a dynamic and customizable format. 
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

Between 1990 and 2021, the largest emission reductions were observed for SOX, which decreased by 79%. It was followed by CO emissions (65% reduction), NOX (41%), VOCs (39%), and PM2.5 (12%). These reductions since 1990 are due in part to government actions and voluntary initiatives from key industrial emitters that were put in place to restrict or eliminate the release of air pollutants in Canada. 

Air pollutant emissions by source

Key results

  • In 2021, the largest sources of emissions of the 6 key air pollutants in Canada were the oil and gas industry, transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, agriculture, and dust and fires (for example, road dust, dust from construction operations and prescribed burning)

Distribution of air pollutant emissions by source, Canada, 2021

Distribution of air pollutant emissions by source, Canada, 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Distribution of air pollutant emissions by source, Canada, 2021
Source Sulphur oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Nitrogen oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Volatile organic compounds
(percentage of national emissions
)
Ammonia
(percentage of national emissions)
Carbon monoxide
(percentage of national emissions)
Fine particulate matter
(percentage of national emissions)
Oil and gas industry 41.2 33.2 36.8 0.4 11.7 1.0
Manufacturing 6.0 5.1 8.0 2.3 3.0 1.3
Ore and mineral industries 25.1 6.1 0.9 0.3 11.1 2.6
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) 0.4 27.6 4.7 1.2 22.2 0.6
Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment <0.1 14.5 10.3 <0.1 38.3 1.2
Building, heating and energy generation 0.4 4.5 0.2 0.1 0.7 0.3
Electric utilities 26.4 7.7 <0.1 <0.1 0.8 <0.1
Home firewood burning 0.2 0.7 7.7 0.2 11.1 5.1
Incineration and waste 0.2 0.4 1.1 1.2 0.3 0.2
Paints and solvents n/a <0.1 18.3 n/a n/a <0.1
Agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) <0.1 0.2 8.3 94.0 <0.1 24.4
Dust and fires <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 0.6 62.0
Miscellaneous <0.1 <0.1 3.4 0.1 0.1 1.1

Note: n/a = not available. The percentages have been rounded off and their sum may not add up to 100.

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports emissions of 6 key air pollutants from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. Emissions from black carbon, a component of PM2.5, are also not included. Consult the black carbon section for a detailed analysis of the pollutant. The category "dust and fires" includes emissions from human activities such as prescribed burning and dust from roads. Consult Table 2 in the Data sources and methods for a complete list of the air pollutant emissions sources included under each category.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, the human made sources most contributing to Canada's air pollutant emissions were the following:

  • the oil and gas industry, electric utilities and ore and mineral industries together represented the majority of SOX emissions
  • transportation (road, rail, air and marine), the oil and gas industries and off-road vehicles and mobile equipment were key sources of NOX emissions
  • most of the VOC emissions came from the oil and gas industry and from the use of paints and solvents
  • agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) accounted for the majority of NH3 emissions
  • off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, transportation and the oil and gas industry were major sources of CO emissions
  • dust and fires were the most important sources of PM2.5 emissions, agriculture being the second largest source

Air pollutant emissions by province and territory

Key results

At the provincial and territorial level, emissions of the 6 key air pollutants in 2021 were:

  • the highest in Alberta for SOX (27% of national emissions), NOX (40%), VOCs (33%), NH3 (29%) and PM2.5 (35%); second highest for CO (23%)
  • the highest in Quebec for CO (25%)
  • the second highest in Saskatchewan for SOX (19% of national emissions), NH3 (22%) and PM2.5 (31%)
  • the second highest in Ontario for NOX (14% of national emissions) and VOCs (21%)
  • also important in British Columbia for NOX, accounting for 14% of the national emissions of this pollutant, Quebec for SOX, NOX and VOCs, accounting for 15%, 9% and 14% of the national emissions of these pollutants and in Ontario for NH3, CO, PM2.5, accounting for 18%, 21%, and 12% of the national emissions of these pollutants

Distribution of air pollutant emissions by province and territory, Canada, 2021

Distribution of air pollutant emissions by province and territory, Canada, 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Distribution of air pollutant emissions by province and territory, Canada, 2021
Province or territory Sulphur oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Nitrogen oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Volatile organic compounds
(percentage of national emissions)
Ammonia
(percentage of national emissions)
Carbon monoxide
(percentage of national emissions)
Fine particulate matter
(percentage of national emissions)
Newfoundland and Labrador 1.6 4.1 1.2 0.2 1.5 0.9
Prince Edward Island <0.1 0.4 0.3 0.6 0.4 0.2
Nova Scotia 8.7 3.5 1.8 0.7 2.1 1.0
New Brunswick 2.4 1.6 1.5 0.7 2.0 0.7
Quebec 15.2 9.4 14.5 12.3 24.9 8.1
Ontario 15.0 14.3 20.6 18.4 21.3 11.7
Manitoba 0.3 2.3 4.1 12.1 4.2 6.6
Saskatchewan 19.0 9.0 14.4 22.2 7.8 30.7
Alberta 26.7 40.1 33.1 28.5 23.3 35.4
British Columbia 11.1 13.6 8.2 4.2 12.0 4.3
Yukon <0.1 0.2 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 0.2
Northwest Territories <0.1 0.7 0.2 <0.1 0.2 0.2
Nunavut <0.1 0.8 <0.1 <0.1 0.1 0.1

Note: The percentages have been rounded off and their sum may not add up to 100.

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 1.97 kB)

How this indicator was calculated

Note:  The indicator reports emissions of 6 key air pollutants from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. Emissions from black carbon, a component of PM2.5, are also not included. Consult the black carbon section for a detailed analysis of the pollutant.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

By pollutant
Sulphur oxides

Sulphur oxide emissions by source

Emissions of sulphur oxides (SOX)  in the atmosphere can have adverse effects on human health and the environment. The SOX emissions released by human activities consist mostly of sulphur dioxides (SO2). Sulphur dioxide can affect respiratory systems of humans and animals and cause damage to vegetation, buildings and materials. It also contributes to the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and acid rain.

Key results

  • Between 1990 and 2021, SOX emissions decreased by 79% from 3 013 kilotonnes (kt) to 641 kt
  • In 2021, 3 sources accounted for 93% (594 kt) of the total SOX emissions: the oil and gas industry, electric utilities and ore and mineral industries

Total sulphur oxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Total sulphur oxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Total sulphur oxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Oil and gas industry
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Electric utilities
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Ore and mineral industries
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Other sources
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Total emissions
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 537.0 618.4 1 483.3 374.8 3 013.5
1991 542.6 592.1 1 336.3 327.4 2 798.4
1992 582.6 610.7 1 171.5 313.9 2 678.7
1993 610.4 547.2 1 114.8 319.0 2 591.4
1994 606.9 559.8 894.5 319.7 2 380.9
1995 600.9 532.6 1 108.3 271.7 2 513.5
1996 600.3 542.2 1 091.2 285.0 2 518.6
1997 556.2 591.3 1 034.1 284.0 2 465.6
1998 527.2 603.6 1 021.7 276.8 2 429.3
1999 519.4 601.1 927.7 281.8 2 330.0
2000 516.7 619.2 916.8 282.0 2 334.7
2001 501.1 623.9 914.2 276.8 2 316.0
2002 470.9 624.3 905.7 271.5 2 272.4
2003 477.9 630.4 814.1 278.6 2 201.0
2004 470.2 581.5 876.3 284.0 2 212.0
2005 464.1 521.9 859.1 254.2 2 099.4
2006 426.3 458.9 827.6 185.6 1 898.5
2007 404.7 491.9 779.8 177.4 1 853.7
2008 380.3 427.5 716.1 144.6 1 668.5
2009 373.7 384.0 523.1 123.5 1 404.3
2010 341.9 333.9 502.1 116.8 1 294.7
2011 331.2 293.2 467.8 111.4 1 203.7
2012 333.1 284.2 478.1 95.3 1 190.8
2013 319.9 278.2 492.9 86.8 1 177.8
2014 290.2 269.2 487.8 81.3 1 128.4
2015 263.8 251.5 483.5 65.8 1 064.5
2016 249.7 253.1 481.7 58.4 1 042.9
2017 258.0 245.5 389.4 55.2 948.1
2018 269.6 220.2 258.5 56.8 805.1
2019 269.5 205.4 183.7 53.3 711.9
2020 244.8 168.2 194.4 43.6 651.0
2021 264.3 169.0 160.8 46.6 640.6

Note: The numbers have been rounded off and their sum may not correspond to the total.

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 2.59 kB)

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. The category "other sources" includes emissions from transportation (road, rail, air and marine), off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, home firewood burning, incineration and waste, agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer), dust and fires, paints and solvents, building heating and energy generation, manufacturing, and other miscellaneous sources. Consult Table 2 in the Data sources and methods for a complete list of the air pollutant emissions sources included under each category. New interactive figures provide a dynamic and customizable format to explore the emissions.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, the oil and gas industry accounted for approximately 41% of total national SOX emissions (264 kt). Electric utilities and ore and mineral industries followed with 26% (169 kt) and 25% (161 kt) of national emissions. For the ore and mineral industries, 36% (57 kt) of its SOX emissions came from the non-ferrous refining and smelting industry.

The largest reduction in emissions between 1990 and 2021 was from ore and mineral industries with a reduction in emissions of approximately 1 323 kt. The largest driver of the reduction from the source was from the non-ferrous refining and smelting industry with a reduction of 1 208 kt over the period.

This significant decrease in SOX emissions from 1990 to 2021 (79%) is due in large part to government actions to fight acid rain and related federal-provincial and United States agreements Footnote 1 Footnote 2  on capping SOX emissions by 1994. Further reductions were also realized through:

  • technological upgrades, new air pollution controls for non-ferrous metal smelters and the closure of 4 major smelters in Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick
  • lower emissions from fossil-fuel-fired (for example, coal-fired) power-generating utilities as a result of better technologies and plant closures (for example, the phase-out of coal electricity generation in Ontario)
  • implementation of regulations on low-sulphur fuelsFootnote 3Footnote 4  

More recently, between 2020 and 2021, SOX emissions have declined due to decreases in emissions from ore and mineral industries of 34 kt (17%). On the other side, an increase in SOX emissions was observed for almost all of the other sources, lead by the oil and gas industry which experienced an increase of 19 kt (8%).

Sulphur oxide emissions by province and territory

Key results

  • In 2021, Alberta and Saskatchewan accounted for 46% (293 kt) of national SOX emissions
  • Between 1990 and 2021
    • the largest reduction were observed in Ontario and Manitoba. Emissions in these provinces decreased by 1 029 kt (92%) and 507 kt (99.6%)
    • Saskatchewan was the only province that experienced an increase in SOX (19%, or 19 kt)

Sulphur oxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021

Sulphur oxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990 and 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Sulphur oxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021
Province or territory 1990
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2005
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2021
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Newfoundland and Labrador 70.3 51.6 10.0
Prince Edward Island 3.7 2.7 0.2
Nova Scotia 203.5 150.3 55.5
New Brunswick 109.1 93.4 15.4
Quebec 251.5 226.5 97.5
Ontario 1 124.9 500.8 96.1
Manitoba 508.8 397.0 1.8
Saskatchewan 102.7 148.5 121.8
Alberta 511.1 459.5 170.8
British Columbia 109.3 65.2 70.8
Yukon 0.6 1.3 <0.1
Northwest Territories 18.0 [A] 0.9 0.5
Nunavut[A] n/a 1.7 0.3

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Note: [A] 1990 emissions data for the Northwest Territories include emissions for Nunavut, which was part of the Northwest Territories until 1999. n/a = not applicable.

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

Alberta had the highest SOX emissions level in 2021, accounting for 27% (171 kt) of total national emissions. Emissions in the province mainly came from the oil and gas industry and electric utilities, combined accounting for 95% (162 kt) of the emissions. Between 2005 to 2021, the province experienced a 63% decline in emissions (289 kt) with the oil and gas industry, notably reductions from natural gas processing and oil sands mining extraction and processing, accounting for a large part of the reductions since 2005.

Saskatchewan was the second-highest emitter of SOX in 2021, accounting for 19% (122 kt) of total national emissions. Emissions from electric utilities, specifically coal electric power generation, was the largest contributor to SOX emissions in the province.  

Quebec ranked third, with 15% (97 kt) of total national emissions of SOX; the ore and mineral industries sector was the most important source of emissions in the province in 2021.

Sulphur oxide emissions by facilities

The National Pollutant Release Inventory provides detailed information on air pollutant emissions from industrial and commercial facilities that meet its reporting criteria.Footnote 5

The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators provide access to this information through an interactive map. The map allows you to explore SOX emissions from individual facilities.

In 2021, 2 600 facilities across Canada reported SOX emissions representing 89% of total national emissions. Of these facilities:

  • 2 187 facilities reported emissions under 25 tonnes (t)
  • 392 facilities reported emissions between 25 to 6 000 t
  • 21 facilities reported emissions of 6 000 t or more located in Alberta (5), Ontario (4), Quebec (4), Saskatchewan (4), Nova Scotia (3) and British Columbia (1) 

Sulphur oxide emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2021

Sulphur oxide emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2016 (see long description below)
Long description

The map of Canada shows the amount of sulphur oxide emissions in tonnes in 2021 by reporting facility. The categories are: 0 to 25 tonnes, 25 to 100 tonnes, 100 to 500 tonnes, 500 to 2 000 tonnes, 2 000 to 6 000 tonnes and 6 000 tonnes or more.

Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) National Pollutant Release Inventory.

Navigate data using the interactive map

Nitrogen oxides

Nitrogen oxide emissions by source

Nitrogen oxides (NOX) include emissions of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Nitrogen dioxide can have adverse effects on human health and the environment. Nitrogen oxides contribute to acid rain, which can lead to the acidification of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. It also contributes to the eutrophication of lakes and to the formation of ground-level ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

Key results

  • In 2021, NOX emissions were 1 321 kilotonnes (kt); this is 41% lower than in 1990
  • The oil and gas industry was the largest source of NOX representing 33% (439 kt) of total emissions in 2021

Total nitrogen oxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Total nitrogen oxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Total nitrogen oxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Transportation
(road, rail, air and marine)
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Oil and gas industry
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Other sources
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Off-road vehicles and
mobile equipment
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Electric utilities
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Total emissions
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 903.6 343.6 382.0 365.8 257.0 2 251.9
1991 892.4 337.1 368.4 338.0 250.9 2 186.8
1992 939.7 353.1 362.8 331.9 262.9 2 250.4
1993 1 007.4 378.5 370.0 336.1 243.0 2 335.0
1994 1 110.1 410.4 375.7 347.8 240.0 2 484.1
1995 1 141.5 426.4 375.3 360.2 248.1 2 551.5
1996 1 177.1 438.3 372.9 367.7 269.0 2 625.0
1997 1 208.3 482.2 372.3 386.0 287.7 2 736.5
1998 1 209.8 493.9 354.8 380.6 310.1 2 749.1
1999 1 198.2 511.2 358.1 383.3 306.4 2 757.1
2000 1 169.1 456.5 361.6 394.2 326.8 2 708.2
2001 1 102.8 451.0 340.6 373.4 313.0 2 580.8
2002 1 056.1 451.9 368.2 352.6 314.9 2 543.8
2003 1 006.5 493.0 365.7 352.3 293.0 2 510.6
2004 964.2 427.3 361.2 342.0 267.5 2 362.2
2005 918.5 427.6 332.5 333.9 253.7 2 266.1
2006 869.8 427.5 282.9 306.7 224.3 2 111.2
2007 856.1 450.3 274.3 283.3 238.8 2 102.8
2008 817.5 460.1 253.3 266.4 225.1 2 022.5
2009 758.4 455.1 226.5 232.8 218.0 1 890.8
2010 724.5 445.3 233.6 258.5 233.7 1 895.6
2011 641.5 457.2 240.1 265.8 199.8 1 804.5
2012 592.3 450.0 237.8 249.5 166.3 1 695.8
2013 557.8 453.0 233.5 245.0 162.0 1 651.3
2014 521.2 462.0 235.1 226.9 167.2 1 612.4
2015 461.4 463.5 231.6 237.2 152.3 1 546.0
2016 410.8 455.7 226.0 226.1 152.4 1 471.1
2017 408.4 463.5 238.3 240.1 145.0 1 495.3
2018 389.4 469.7 234.7 236.2 129.0 1 459.1
2019 388.3 468.2 230.9 226.2 124.8 1 438.4
2020 351.5 444.1 216.9 195.6 101.9 1 310.0
2021 364.5 439.0 224.5 191.8 101.2 1 321.0

Note: The numbers have been rounded off and their sum may not correspond to the total.

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 2.80 kB)

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. The category "other sources" includes emissions from ore and mineral industries, manufacturing, building heating and energy generation, home firewood burning, incineration and waste, agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer), dust and fires, paints and solvents, and other miscellaneous sources. Consult Table 2 in the Data sources and methods for a complete list of the air pollutant emissions sources included under each category. New interactive figures provide a dynamic and customizable format to explore the emissions.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

The oil and gas industry was the largest contributor of NOX emissions between 1990 and 2021. Emissions of NOX from this sector increased by 95 kt (28%) during that period. 

The transportation (road, rail, air, and marine) sector emitted the next largest proportions of NOX emissions in 2021, representing 28% (365 kt) of total national emissions. This sector also experienced the largest decrease in emissions (60% or 539 kt) between 1990 and 2021.

The decline in NOX emissions between 1990 and 2021 is mostly attributable to 2 factors:

  • the reduction in emissions from transportation after 2000, given the progressive introduction of cleaner technology and fuels for vehicles
  • lower emissions from fossil-fuel-fired (for example, coal-fired) power-generating utilities as a result of better emission control technologies and certain plant closures (for example, the closure of coal power plants in Ontario)

More recently, between 2020 and 2021, NOX emissions have increased mainly due to increases in emissions from transportation (road, rail, air and marine) sources of 13 kt (4%), notably from domestic marine navigation.

Nitrogen oxide emissions by province and territory

Key results

  • In 2021, among provinces and territories, Alberta emitted the most NOX. The province accounted for 40% (530 kt) of national emissions
  • Between 1990 and 2021,
    • the largest reduction was observed in Ontario. Emissions decreased by 68% (409 kt) in the province
    • NOX emissions increased in Northwest Territories and Nunavut by 45% (6 kt) 

Nitrogen oxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021

Nitrogen oxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990 and 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Nitrogen oxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021
Province or territory 1990
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2005
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2021
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Newfoundland and Labrador 51.2 58.6 54.2
Prince Edward Island 6.3 6.8 5.9
Nova Scotia 82.2 89.6 46.6
New Brunswick 78.7 70.1 20.8
Quebec 307.8 290.1 124.0
Ontario 597.3 540.7 188.6
Manitoba 71.4 66.6 29.8
Saskatchewan 148.6 171.4 118.5
Alberta 605.3 663.4 530.2
British Columbia 286.2 284.0 180.0
Yukon 3.3 2.5 2.7
Northwest Territories 13.6[A] 14.5 9.5
Nunavut[A] n/a 7.8 10.3

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 1.21 kB)

Note: [A] 1990 emissions data for the Northwest Territories include emissions for Nunavut, which was part of the Northwest Territories until 1999. n/a = not applicable.

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

The oil and gas industry is an important source of NOX emissions in Alberta, accounting for 65% (344 kt) of the province's NOX emissions in 2021. The increasing contribution of this sector to the province's emissions between 1990 and 2021 was more than offset by emission reductions from the transport and electric utilities sectors.

Ontario and British Columbia contributed the second and third largest proportion of NOX emissions in 2021, both accounting for 14% (189 kt and 180 kt) of total national emissions, with transportation (road, rail, air and marine) being the most important source in both provinces followed by off-road vehicles and mobile equipment in Ontario and the oil and gas industry in British Columbia. However, Ontario experienced the largest decrease in emissions (409 kt) between 1990 and 2021 in large part due to emission reductions from transportation (road, rail, air and marine), electric utilities and off-road vehicles and mobile equipment. The majority of total NOX emission reductions occurred between 2005 and 2021 (352 kt).

Quebec ranked fourth, with 9% (124 kt) of total national emissions. Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) was the most important source of NOX in this province. Quebec also experienced a large decrease in emissions (166 kt) between 2005 and 2021 due to emission reductions from transportation (road, rail, air and marine).

Nitrogen oxide emissions by facilities

The National Pollutant Release Inventory provides detailed information on air pollutant emissions from industrial and commercial facilities that meet its reporting criteria.

The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators provide access to this information through an interactive map. The map allows you to explore NOX emissions from individual facilities.

In 2021, 3 458 facilities across Canada reported NOX emissions representing 39% of total national emissions. Of these facilities: 

  • 2 006 facilities reported emissions under 50 tonnes (t)
  • 1 341 facilities reported emissions between 50 to 800 t
  • 111 facilities reported emissions of 800 t or more located in Alberta (45), Ontario (18), Quebec (12), British Columbia (9), Saskatchewan (7), Newfoundland and Labrador (6), Northwest Territories and Nunavut (5), Nova Scotia (4), New Brunswick (4) and Manitoba (1)

Nitrogen oxide emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2021

Nitrogen oxide emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2016 (see long description below)
Long description

The map of Canada shows the amount of nitrogen oxide emissions in tonnes in 2021 by reporting facility. The categories are: 0 to 50 tonnes, 50 to 100 tonnes, 100 to 200 tonnes, 200 to 400 tonnes, 400 to 800 tonnes and 800 tonnes or more.

Source:  Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) National Pollutant Release Inventory.

Navigate data using the interactive map

Volatile organic compounds

Volatile organic compound emissions by source

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are carbon-containing gases and vapours released into the atmosphere by natural sources and human activities.Footnote 6  There are hundreds of VOCs that are emitted and that affect the health of Canadians and the environment. VOCs are primary precursors to the formation of ground-level ozone and particulate matter which are the main pollutants contributing to the formation of smog.

Key results

  • In 2021, VOC emissions in Canada were 1 400 kilotonnes (kt). This is a 894 kt (39%) decrease from 1990 levels
  • Since 2000, the oil and gas industry has been the highest contributor to VOC emissions. In 2021, the sector accounted for 37% (516 kt) of total emissions

Total volatile organic compound emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Total volatile organic compound emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Total volatile organic compound emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Oil and gas industry
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Paints and solvents
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Other sources
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Manufacturing
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Home firewood burning
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Agriculture (livestock, cropproduction and fertilizer)
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine)
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Total emissions
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 599.4 357.5 150.5 290.6 257.0 188.3 103.6 346.8 2 293.8
1991 594.0 350.0 151.8 290.0 253.7 189.5 103.6 335.4 2 268.0
1992 607.9 352.2 136.7 298.3 254.6 199.2 105.3 345.4 2 299.6
1993 635.5 351.4 160.0 305.9 271.1 200.0 105.1 362.3 2 391.4
1994 651.8 362.1 156.4 321.7 273.0 194.3 107.5 384.0 2 450.8
1995 663.0 375.2 151.3 379.6 262.8 189.6 111.5 376.8 2 509.8
1996 690.5 373.0 140.6 404.6 262.2 193.7 114.5 380.0 2 559.3
1997 677.3 374.9 128.8 433.5 257.4 191.1 115.2 373.3 2 551.5
1998 689.4 377.5 129.8 459.3 261.5 153.1 115.6 366.2 2 552.4
1999 643.5 389.5 123.3 481.8 259.2 148.1 116.0 351.2 2 512.7
2000 657.8 395.9 120.3 480.3 254.5 149.7 116.9 330.0 2 505.2
2001 662.4 375.7 115.9 486.1 229.5 128.8 119.9 309.6 2 428.0
2002 674.2 366.9 111.3 488.8 232.8 124.1 121.0 289.9 2 409.0
2003 668.0 368.8 123.5 473.9 216.0 116.5 120.6 263.4 2 350.7
2004 647.2 364.3 111.6 462.3 200.9 123.4 124.5 243.8 2 278.1
2005 643.5 441.0 109.2 440.0 187.1 126.8 125.6 215.8 2 289.1
2006 621.5 417.1 100.1 409.9 165.2 124.0 123.0 198.1 2 159.0
2007 617.6 409.4 96.6 368.5 149.7 142.9 120.9 188.3 2 093.9
2008 625.2 392.3 95.5 333.0 133.8 140.3 118.9 173.0 2 012.0
2009 579.9 353.3 94.6 311.4 113.0 139.0 116.2 160.2 1 867.6
2010 560.5 361.4 94.4 317.8 118.1 120.8 115.2 148.7 1 836.9
2011 548.8 349.7 96.0 300.4 116.0 125.7 114.1 115.2 1 766.0
2012 598.0 354.6 93.4 274.8 117.6 116.5 114.8 107.8 1 777.4
2013 646.3 357.0 87.8 255.2 115.9 126.1 116.1 103.4 1 807.9
2014 678.8 363.6 93.5 218.3 109.9 125.7 115.3 96.0 1 801.1
2015 654.2 331.6 90.2 205.7 105.6 120.3 114.0 89.1 1 710.7
2016 590.6 315.4 89.0 200.7 104.4 111.8 114.6 84.0 1 610.5
2017 608.1 311.2 86.7 189.4 100.6 110.6 114.9 79.9 1 601.3
2018 627.2 311.2 86.6 178.2 106.8 122.2 115.7 79.0 1 626.9
2019 606.2 301.9 87.7 168.6 103.5 124.2 115.4 77.0 1 584.4
2020 520.5 260.4 79.8 148.4 97.1 113.5 115.2 64.3 1 399.2
2021 515.7 256.7 81.2 144.6 112.1 108.4 115.7 65.4 1 399.7

Note: The numbers have been rounded off and their sum may not correspond to the total.

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 3.60 kB)

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. The category "other sources" includes emissions from incineration and waste, ore and mineral industries, dust and fires, building heating and energy generation, electric utilities and other miscellaneous sources. Consult Table 2 in the Data sources and methods for a complete list of the air pollutant emissions sources included under each category. New interactive figures provide a dynamic and customizable format to explore the emissions.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

Paints and solvents, and off-road vehicles and mobile equipment were also important sources of VOC emissions in 2021 contributing 18% (257 kt) and 10% (145 kt) of total emissions.

The largest emissions reduction between 1990 and 2021 was from transportation (road, rail, air and marine), with emissions reductions of 281 kt (81%). 

The long-term decrease in VOC emissions is mainly attributable to 3 factors:

  • the progressive introduction of cleaner technologies and fuels resulting in emission reductions from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment
  • emission reductions from most industrial and non-industrial sources from facility closures, decrease in production and improved emission controls
  • lower levels of VOCs in products such as paints, solvents and cleaners

Compared to the previous year, VOC emissions increased by less than 1 kt (0.03%) in 2021. The largest increase was from manufacturing 15 kt (15%), notably wood products. 

Volatile organic compound emissions by province and territory

Key results

  • Alberta emitted the highest proportion of VOCs in 2021. The province represented 33% (464 kt) of national emissions
  • Between 1990 and 2021,
    • Ontario experienced the largest reduction in VOC emissions. Emissions in the province decreased by 53% (330 kt)
    • Saskatchewan was the only province that experienced an increase in VOC emissions, with +14% (24 kt)

Volatile organic compound emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021

Volatile organic compound emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990 and 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Volatile organic compound emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021
Province or territory 1990
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2005
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2021
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Newfoundland and Labrador 36.0 32.5 17.4
Prince Edward Island 9.2 8.8 4.5
Nova Scotia 57.0 50.5 25.2
New Brunswick 45.5 50.6 20.7
Quebec 376.0 362.1 202.8
Ontario 617.7 579.0 287.8
Manitoba 76.5 84.4 56.9
Saskatchewan 176.8 250.3 201.1
Alberta 592.8 613.3 463.8
British Columbia 294.1 245.4 115.4
Yukon 1.7 2.2 1.0
Northwest Territories 10.4[A] 8.6 2.3
Nunavut[A] n/a 1.3 0.9

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 1.21 kB)

Note: [A] 1990 emissions data for the Northwest Territories include emissions for Nunavut, which was part of the Northwest Territories until 1999. n/a = not applicable.

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

Alberta was the highest emitting province of VOCs in 2021 (464 kt), with the oil and gas industry as the main source, contributing 70% (326 kt) of the province's emissions.

Ontario was the second-highest emitter of VOCs, accounting for 21% (288 kt) of total national emissions in 2021. The main emission sources are paints and solvents, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, and manufacturing. Ontario also experienced the largest reduction in emissions, with 330 kt (-53%) between 1990 and 2021, mainly as a result of emission reductions from off-road vehicles and mobile equipment and transportation (road, rail, air and marine). Majority of the reductions in Ontario occurred between 2005 and 2021 (291 kt).

Quebec was the third largest emitter, with 14% (203 kt) of total national emissions in 2021, where paints and solvents and home firewood burning collectively accounted for 49% of the emissions in that province.

Most provinces and territories experienced significant reductions in emissions between 1990 and 2021 with the exception of Saskatchewan, where emissions increased 14% over the period. The oil and gas industry is responsible for the increase in emissions in Saskatchewan.  

Volatile organic compound emissions by facilities

The National Pollutant Release Inventory provides detailed information on air pollutant emissions from industrial and commercial facilities that meet its reporting criteria.

The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators provide access to this information through an interactive map. The map allows you to explore VOC emissions from individual facilities.

In 2021, 4 264 facilities across Canada reported VOC emissions representing 18% of total national emissions. Of these facilities:

  • 2 558 facilities reported emissions under 15 tonnes (t)
  • 1 620 facilities reported emissions between 15 to 400 t
  • 86 facilities reported emissions of 400 t or more located in Alberta (36), Ontario (18), Saskatchewan (8), Quebec (7), British Columbia (6), Manitoba (3), Newfoundland and Labrador (3), New Brunswick (3) and Nova Scotia (2)

Volatile organic compound emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2021

Volatile organic compound emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2016 (see long description below)
Long description

The map of Canada shows the amount of volatile organic compound emissions in tonnes in 2021 by reporting facility. The categories are: 0 to 15 tonnes, 15 to 30 tonnes, 30 to 100 tonnes, 100 to 200 tonnes, 200 to 400 tonnes and 400 tonnes or more.

Source:  Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) National Pollutant Release Inventory.

Navigate data using the interactive map

Ammonia

Ammonia emissions by source

Ammonia (NH3) is a colourless gas with a noticeable odour at high concentrations. It can be poisonous if inhaled in great quantities and is irritating to the eyes, nose, and throat. It can also contribute to the nitrification and eutrophication of aquatic systems. In the air, the gas combines with sulphates and nitrates to form secondary fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

Key results

  • In 2021, NH3 emissions were 493 kilotonnes (kt). This is 25% higher than in 1990
  • Agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) was the main source of NH3 emissions in 2021. Emissions from this source accounted for more than 94% (463 kt) of total national emissions

Total ammonia emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Total ammonia emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Total ammonia emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Agriculture
(livestock, crop production and fertilizer)
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Manufacturing
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Other sources
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Transportation
(road, rail, air and marine)
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Total emissions
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 355.9 20.0 13.2 5.6 394.7
1991 352.9 19.0 13.5 6.2 391.6
1992 364.2 19.0 13.8 7.2 404.2
1993 367.0 18.5 14.7 8.3 408.4
1994 379.0 19.9 14.9 9.4 423.2
1995 396.2 26.6 16.7 9.9 449.4
1996 412.6 26.1 16.3 10.7 465.7
1997 418.1 25.2 16.4 11.1 470.8
1998 417.3 26.0 16.6 11.5 471.4
1999 415.1 24.8 14.7 11.6 466.2
2000 424.2 24.9 14.4 11.8 475.3
2001 427.4 21.7 14.0 11.9 475.1
2002 430.6 21.6 19.6 11.7 483.5
2003 437.1 18.8 12.1 11.4 479.5
2004 452.0 18.5 11.8 11.3 493.6
2005 448.4 17.2 13.3 10.7 489.5
2006 439.8 16.1 12.1 10.2 478.2
2007 444.9 16.0 11.5 10.1 482.5
2008 438.3 13.6 12.7 9.5 474.0
2009 423.6 12.6 12.4 9.0 457.7
2010 415.7 11.5 13.0 8.7 448.9
2011 413.3 11.8 12.8 7.7 445.6
2012 430.4 11.9 11.8 7.4 461.4
2013 443.5 11.2 12.9 7.3 474.9
2014 434.4 11.3 13.3 7.0 465.9
2015 437.4 11.7 11.9 6.9 467.9
2016 437.3 12.0 12.3 6.9 468.4
2017 427.9 11.3 11.7 6.8 457.7
2018 443.5 12.0 12.1 6.9 474.5
2019 444.8 11.1 12.5 6.9 475.3
2020 458.4 12.0 11.7 5.8 488.0
2021 463.0 11.4 12.1 6.1 492.6

Note: The numbers have been rounded off and their sum may not correspond to the total.

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 2.82 kB)

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. The category "other sources" includes emissions from incineration and waste, the oil and gas industry, home firewood burning, ore and mineral industries, electric utilities, building heating and energy generation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, dust and fires, paints and solvents, and other miscellaneous sources. Consult Table 2 in the Data sources and methods for a complete list of the air pollutant emissions sources included under each category. New interactive figures provide a dynamic and customizable format to explore the emissions.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

Between 1990 and 2021, agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) experienced the largest increase (30% or 107 kt) in NH3 emissions. It also remained the key source of NH3 emissions throughout that period. Emissions from manufacturing (11 kt), other sources (6 kt), incineration and waste (6 kt) and transportation (road, rail, air and marine) (6 kt) combined represented 6% of national emissions in 2021.

The growth in NH3 emissions from agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) between 1990 and 2021 is mainly due to the increased use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. Up to 2005, larger livestock populations also added to the growth. However, from 2006 to 2011, livestock populations decreased and NH3 emissions from that source have since declined slowly. More recently, emissions from crop production have been steadily increasing since 2006.

Ammonia emissions by province and territory

Key results

  • In 2021, Alberta and Saskatchewan accounted for almost half (250 kt) of national NH3 emissions
  • Between 1990 and 2021,
    • Ontario experienced the largest emissions reduction with 20 kt (18%)
    • The largest increase in NH3 emissions was in Saskatchewan with emissions more than doubling (a 61 kt increase)

Ammonia emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021

Ammonia emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990 and 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Ammonia emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021
Province or territory 1990
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2005
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2021
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Newfoundland and Labrador 1.0 1.1 0.9
Prince Edward Island 3.4 3.7 3.1
Nova Scotia 4.9 4.5 3.3
New Brunswick 4.6 5.7 3.7
Quebec 65.1 67.6 60.7
Ontario 110.8 101.8 90.5
Manitoba 38.0 55.4 59.7
Saskatchewan 48.6 84.0 109.5
Alberta 95.2 140.4 140.6
British Columbia 23.0 25.3 20.6
Yukon <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Northwest Territories <0.1[A] <0.1 <0.1
Nunavut[A] n/a <0.1 <0.1

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 1.19 kB)

Note: [A] 1990 emissions data for the Northwest Territories include emissions for Nunavut, which was part of the Northwest Territories until 1999. n/a = not applicable.

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, Alberta emitted the most NH3 of all the provinces and territories, accounting for 29% (141 kt) of total national emissions. Saskatchewan contributed the second-largest proportion of NH3, representing 22% (109kt).

Ontario followed with 18% (90 kt) of total national emissions, respectively. Livestock farms and the application of fertilizers were the most important sources of NH3 emissions.

Virtually all of the increase in emissions between 1990 and 2021 took place in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba.

Ammonia emissions by facilities

The National Pollutant Release Inventory provides detailed information on air pollutant emissions from industrial and commercial facilities that meet its reporting criteria.

The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators provide access to this information through an interactive map. The map allows you to explore NH3 emissions from individual facilities.

In 2021, 271 facilities across Canada reported NH3 emissions representing 4% of total national emissions. Of these facilities:

  • 172 facilities reported emissions under 25 tonnes (t)
  • 91 facilities reported emissions between 25 to 400 t
  • 8 facilities reported emissions of 400 t or more located in Alberta (5), British Columbia (1), Manitoba (1) and Saskatchewan (1)

Ammonia emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2021

Ammonia emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2016 (see long description)
Long description

The map of Canada shows the amount of ammonia emissions in tonnes in 2021 by reporting facility. The categories are: 0 to 5 tonnes, 5 to 25 tonnes, 25 to 50 tonnes, 50 to 100 tonnes, 100 to 400 tonnes and 400 tonnes or more.

Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) National Pollutant Release Inventory.

Navigate data using the interactive map

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide emissions by source

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless and poisonous gas. Once inhaled into the bloodstream, it can inhibit the blood's capacity to carry oxygen to organs and tissues, affecting human health.

Key results

  • In 2021,
    • CO emissions in Canada were 4 596 kilotonnes (kt), a decrease of 65% from 1990 levels
    • Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment was the largest source of CO emissions in Canada representing 38% (1 761 kt) of total emissions

 Total carbon monoxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021

 Total carbon monoxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Total carbon monoxide emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Transportation
(road, rail, air and marine)
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Other sources
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Home firewood burning
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Oil and gas industry
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Ore and mineral industries
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Total emissions
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 6 099.1 3 556.1 1 866.5 812.1 334.1 389.8 13 057.7
1991 5 829.7 3 375.5 1 903.1 817.1 323.9 453.5 12 702.7
1992 5 906.2 3 294.7 1 702.0 859.4 338.8 482.8 12 584.0
1993 5 950.0 3 177.8 1 901.2 863.0 361.1 478.2 12 731.3
1994 6 039.0 3 197.1 1 866.1 838.6 398.3 461.9 12 801.1
1995 5 694.9 3 759.4 1 907.7 817.5 405.8 457.7 13 043.1
1996 5 517.8 3 820.5 1 663.6 835.2 418.1 447.2 12 702.4
1997 5 210.2 4 015.3 1 431.5 825.8 467.3 413.7 12 363.7
1998 4 932.6 4 201.8 1 361.2 661.9 485.3 397.9 12 040.8
1999 4 563.5 4 382.9 1 316.6 643.1 497.6 374.0 11 777.8
2000 4 435.8 4 355.5 1 221.6 652.0 442.5 396.1 11 503.5
2001 4 140.5 4 452.1 1 085.3 561.8 466.7 421.9 11 128.2
2002 3 837.5 4 596.1 951.0 542.9 500.2 491.0 10 918.8
2003 3 567.4 4 272.5 996.5 512.6 529.4 521.0 10 399.4
2004 3 256.6 4 078.4 722.6 544.2 501.6 499.7 9 603.2
2005 2 795.1 3 869.6 692.2 560.7 493.2 505.3 8 916.0
2006 2 544.6 3 607.5 493.6 549.7 502.8 509.4 8 207.6
2007 2 330.1 2 931.2 415.5 645.0 522.4 531.6 7 375.9
2008 2 154.3 2 652.6 407.7 645.0 539.5 546.4 6 945.4
2009 2 034.6 2 544.4 393.5 651.7 523.8 512.4 6 660.3
2010 1 891.3 2 869.7 350.9 577.5 518.8 536.7 6 744.8
2011 1 458.2 2 820.1 336.8 614.0 527.8 560.0 6 316.9
2012 1 368.2 2 616.6 357.0 582.5 529.4 552.1 6 005.8
2013 1 356.4 2 493.0 298.6 643.8 560.1 546.2 5 898.1
2014 1 319.2 2 111.8 386.1 656.9 544.6 515.0 5 533.5
2015 1 263.2 2 009.7 363.1 643.9 552.0 513.3 5 345.1
2016 1 248.3 2 060.9 346.6 608.2 533.2 559.0 5 356.2
2017 1 198.1 2 013.7 286.7 609.7 547.1 589.3 5 244.6
2018 1 188.6 1 961.5 259.7 618.2 564.1 527.0 5 119.2
2019 1 165.8 1 925.4 269.1 586.1 537.8 508.4 4 992.6
2020 1 000.2 1 709.1 233.3 534.9 510.2 512.2 4 499.8
2021 1 019.9 1 760.5 256.8 510.7 536.2 511.6 4 595.6

Note: The numbers have been rounded off and their sum may not correspond to the total.

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 3.12 kB)

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. The category "other sources" includes emissions from dust and fires, electric utilities, building heating and energy generation, incineration and waste, agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer), paints and solvents, manufacturing and other miscellaneous sources. Consult Table 2 in the Data sources and methods for a complete list of the air pollutant emissions sources included under each category. New interactive figures provide a dynamic and customizable format to explore the emissions.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment were the 2 most important sources of CO. These sources combined represented 61% (2 780 kt) of national emissions.

The largest reduction in emissions between 1990 and 2021 occurred in transportation (road, rail, air and marine) with an emission decrease of 5 079 kt (83%).

The decline in CO emissions between 1990 and 2021 is mainly due to increasingly stringent engine and vehicle regulations and the progressive introduction of cleaner and more efficient technology in vehicles (for example, catalytic converters).

CO emissions decreased significantly between 2019 and 2020. More recently, between 2020 and 2021, CO emissions have increased mainly due to increases in emissions from off-road vehicles and mobile equipment sources of 51 kt (3 %). Although, CO emissions in 2021 are still notably below emission levels in 2019.

Carbon monoxide emissions by province and territory

Key results

  • In 2021, Quebec and Alberta accounted for 48% (2 211 kt) of national CO emissions
  • Between 1990 and 2021,
    • all provinces and territories experienced significant reductions in emissions
    • the largest reductions occurred in Ontario (2 613 kt or 73%), British Columbia (1 777 kt or 76%) and Quebec (1 339 kt or 54%)

Carbon monoxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021

Carbon monoxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990 and 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Carbon monoxide emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021
Province or territory 1990
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2005
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2021
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Newfoundland and Labrador 208.8 122.8 70.1
Prince Edward Island 73.2 42.3 17.9
Nova Scotia 366.5 217.3 98.5
New Brunswick 307.8 234.7 90.1
Quebec 2 481.4 1 849.3 1 142.7
Ontario 3 593.6 2 454.8 980.8
Manitoba 502.2 403.6 193.1
Saskatchewan 841.2 683.7 360.6
Alberta 2 307.9 1 658.4 1 068.6
British Columbia 2 329.2 1 207.6 552.2
Yukon 17.2 17.5 6.1
Northwest Territories 28.9[A] 17.7 8.8
Nunavut[A] n/a 6.4 6.3

Download data file (Excel/CSV; 1.24 kB)

Note: [A] 1990 emissions data for the Northwest Territories include emissions for Nunavut, which was part of the Northwest Territories until 1999. n/a = not applicable.

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, Quebec emitted the most CO of all the provinces and territories, representing 25% (1 143 kt) of the total national emissions. Ore and mineral industries, specifically the aluminum industry representing 93% (354 kt) of the sector’s emissions, was the most important source of CO emissions for Quebec.

The province of Alberta ranked second, with 23% (1 069 kt) of total national emissions in 2021, with 75% of those emissions from 2 sources, namely off-road vehicles and mobile equipment and the oil and gas industry.

Ontario, the third largest CO emitter, accounted for 21% (981 kt) of total national emissions. The off-road vehicles and mobile equipment sector accounted for 44% of the province's CO emissions.

The sharp decrease in emissions between 1990 and 2021 in all provinces and territories is mainly attributable to emission reductions from transportation (road, rail, air and marine). Some of the largest reductions occurred between 2005 and 2021 notably for Ontario with emissions decreasing by 1 474 kt (60%).

Carbon monoxide emissions by facilities

The National Pollutant Release Inventory provides detailed information on air pollutant emissions from industrial and commercial facilities that meet its reporting criteria.

The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators provide access to this information through an interactive map. The map allows you to explore CO emissions from individual facilities.

In 2021, 3 269 facilities across Canada reported CO emissions representing 19% of total national emissions. Of these facilities:  

  • 1 512 facilities reported emissions under 25 tonnes (t)
  • 1 663 facilities reported emissions between 25 to 1 000 t
  • 94 facilities reported emissions of 1 000 t or more located in Alberta (30), Quebec (19), Ontario (19), British Columbia (13), New Brunswick (6), Saskatchewan (4), Newfoundland and Labrador (2) and Nova Scotia (1)

Carbon monoxide emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2021

Carbon monoxide emissions by reporting facilities, Canada, 2016 (see long description below)
Long description

The map of Canada shows the amount of carbon monoxide emissions in tonnes in 2021 by reporting facility. The categories are: 0 to 25 tonnes, 25 to 50 tonnes, 50 to 100 tonnes, 100 to 500 tonnes, 500 to 100 tonnes and 1 000 tonnes or more.

Source:  Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) National Pollutant Release Inventory.

Navigate data using the interactive map

Fine particulate matter

Fine particulate matter emissions by source

Particulate matter (PM) is directly emitted into the air in solid or liquid form. It is also formed in the air from precursor substances such as sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds and ammonia.Footnote 7  Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) refers to particulate matter with a size of less than 2.5 micrometres (also called microns). It is one of the major components of smog. When inhaled deeply into the lungs, even small amounts of PM2.5 can cause serious health problems. It can also damage vegetation and structures, contribute to haze and reduce visibility.

Key results

  • In 2021, PM2.5 emissions were 1 463 kilotonnes (kt). This is 14% lower than in 1990
  • Emissions from dust and fires (for example, road dust, dust from construction operations and prescribed burning) accounted for the majority of PM2.5 emissions, reaching 62% (907 kt) of total national emissions in 2021.
    • These emissions increased by 71% (377 kt) between 1990 and 2021. Dust from construction operations, specifically oil and gas engineering, and unpaved roads accounted for the majority of the increase.

Total fine particulate matter emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Total fine particulate matter emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Total fine particulate matter emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Dust and fires
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Agriculture
(livestock, crop production and fertilizer)
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Other sources
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Home firewood burning
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Total emissions
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 529.7 674.0 321.0 139.7 1 664.4
1991 510.5 666.9 295.9 139.6 1 612.9
1992 492.2 652.2 287.6 145.8 1 577.7
1993 488.2 638.1 282.2 145.6 1 554.0
1994 543.6 623.9 280.6 140.6 1 588.7
1995 506.4 609.8 279.4 136.2 1 531.8
1996 535.7 596.2 272.0 138.4 1 542.4
1997 594.0 582.6 267.9 135.3 1 579.8
1998 462.0 569.2 259.9 107.6 1 398.8
1999 493.1 555.8 260.8 103.5 1 413.2
2000 467.6 542.6 259.0 103.8 1 373.0
2001 494.3 529.4 237.4 88.6 1 349.6
2002 467.6 509.6 213.5 84.7 1 275.3
2003 500.6 489.9 206.9 78.9 1 276.3
2004 488.5 469.7 200.7 82.7 1 241.5
2005 507.4 450.2 198.7 84.2 1 240.6
2006 562.6 430.7 173.4 81.6 1 248.3
2007 651.2 416.7 167.8 95.1 1 330.8
2008 736.1 403.1 159.0 94.5 1 392.6
2009 648.2 389.8 142.9 94.8 1 275.7
2010 739.8 376.9 146.1 83.5 1 346.3
2011 797.2 363.7 140.7 88.1 1 389.8
2012 908.7 366.8 137.0 82.9 1 495.4
2013 918.3 369.7 132.2 89.5 1 509.7
2014 914.1 372.6 128.8 88.9 1 504.5
2015 931.2 375.7 122.9 84.8 1 514.6
2016 932.1 378.7 118.1 78.5 1 507.3
2017 937.1 374.4 123.3 77.2 1 511.9
2018 944.8 370.1 121.7 85.1 1 521.7
2019 950.5 365.9 118.9 86.4 1 521.7
2020 888.3 361.3 113.9 78.9 1 442.4
2021 906.5 357.6 123.6 75.3 1 463.0

Note: The numbers have been rounded off and their sum may not correspond to the total.

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Total fine particulate matter emissions by source, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Ore and mineral industries
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine)
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Manufacturing
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Miscellaneous
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Oil and gas industry
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Building heating and energy generation
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Electric utilities
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Incineration and waste
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Paints and solvents
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 54.0 33.4 113.9 14.0 37.1 12.0 4.6 48.5 3.5 <0.1
1991 51.2 31.9 103.0 12.1 33.6 12.4 4.6 43.5 3.6 <0.1
1992 49.2 32.2 99.8 12.1 32.4 12.8 4.7 40.7 3.7 <0.1
1993 49.0 32.4 100.5 12.4 33.7 13.0 4.9 32.6 3.8 <0.1
1994 50.9 33.9 100.4 12.9 35.0 13.9 4.9 25.0 3.9 <0.1
1995 50.9 34.8 101.4 13.3 35.3 14.2 4.9 20.9 3.7 <0.1
1996 52.2 34.6 93.1 13.4 36.4 14.3 5.2 19.1 3.7 <0.1
1997 52.8 34.4 85.2 13.8 38.2 14.7 5.0 20.2 3.6 <0.1
1998 50.4 32.6 80.1 14.6 37.8 16.4 4.6 19.9 3.6 <0.1
1999 50.2 33.3 79.7 15.2 38.4 14.0 4.8 21.6 3.6 <0.1
2000 51.0 32.1 74.7 15.6 39.7 13.7 5.3 23.2 3.7 <0.1
2001 47.5 30.3 64.0 15.9 37.9 13.6 5.0 19.3 3.7 <0.1
2002 37.6 29.7 55.2 16.4 36.3 14.1 5.2 15.3 3.7 <0.1
2003 37.6 31.3 53.0 16.5 35.4 12.8 5.6 11.1 3.8 <0.1
2004 36.0 31.7 50.5 16.9 34.2 12.1 5.3 10.3 3.6 <0.1
2005 41.2 32.1 44.8 17.2 33.0 12.5 5.2 9.1 3.4 <0.1
2006 40.1 30.8 28.9 17.4 30.3 11.8 4.9 6.0 3.3 <0.1
2007 38.5 30.0 27.0 17.4 27.9 11.6 5.2 7.0 3.2 <0.1
2008 36.7 29.0 24.0 17.8 26.2 10.1 5.1 6.8 3.1 <0.1
2009 31.2 27.2 19.8 17.9 23.4 9.2 5.0 6.1 2.9 <0.1
2010 34.9 26.2 19.5 17.6 25.4 9.2 4.8 5.7 2.8 <0.1
2011 33.9 22.4 20.0 16.8 25.8 9.6 5.0 4.3 2.7 <0.1
2012 35.9 20.0 19.3 16.9 24.2 10.2 4.6 3.2 2.6 <0.1
2013 32.6 18.4 19.5 16.8 23.5 10.8 4.8 3.2 2.6 <0.1
2014 32.4 16.5 18.6 16.1 21.4 12.8 4.9 3.6 2.5 <0.1
2015 30.9 13.7 18.6 15.3 22.0 11.7 4.8 3.5 2.6 <0.1
2016 31.3 11.7 17.1 15.3 21.2 10.7 4.8 3.4 2.6 <0.1
2017 34.8 11.0 17.2 15.4 21.9 12.0 5.0 3.3 2.6 <0.1
2018 33.9 10.9 17.2 15.4 21.3 12.1 5.3 3.2 2.7 <0.1
2019 33.8 10.3 16.3 15.5 20.2 11.9 5.3 2.8 2.7 <0.1
2020 32.9 8.9 16.4 15.6 17.4 12.4 5.1 2.4 2.8 <0.1
2021 37.9 9.2 19.7 15.7 17.0 14.3 4.9 2.0 2.8 <0.1

Note: The numbers have been rounded off and their sum may not correspond to the total.

How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation. The category "other sources" includes emissions from ore and mineral industries, transportation (road, rail, air and marine), manufacturing, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, the oil and gas industry, building heating and energy generation, electric utilities, incineration and wastes, paints and solvents, and other miscellaneous sources. Consult Table 2 in the Data sources and methods for a complete list of the air pollutant emissions sources included under each category. New interactive figures provide a dynamic and customizable format to explore the emissions.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, 86% of PM2.5 emissions came from open source emissions, such as dust and fires, and agriculture (livestockFootnote 8  , crop production and fertilizer). PM2.5 emissions does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and vegetation. In general, these open source emissions are spread over large geographical areas, are highly dependent on weather conditions (for example, wind and rain) and are located outside of urban areas. 

The remaining 14% of PM2.5 emissions in 2021 came from home firewood burning (75 kt or 5%) and other sources, including:

  • ore and mineral industries, representing 3% (38 kt) of the emissions
  • manufacturing and miscellaneous sources, such as emissions from commercial cooking, each representing about 1% (20 kt and 16 kt) of emissions
  • off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, representing about 1% (17 kt)
  • the oil and gas industry, representing 1% (14 kt)
  • transportation (road, rail, air and marine), representing less than 1% (9 kt)
  • other emissions (less than 1%; 10 kt) coming from building heating and energy generation, electric utilities, incineration and waste, and the use of paints and solvents

Many of the sources above, despite representing a small proportion of national emissions, can have a disproportionate health impacts on the population because they are generally concentrated in populated areas.

The decreases in PM2.5 emissions between 1990 and 2021 are mainly attributable to emission reductions from agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer), manufacturing and home firewood burning. These reductions outweigh the increase in emissions from dust and fires (specifically road dust and dust from construction operations) over the period. The adoption of conservation practices in crop production and the use of new fireplace inserts, furnaces and stoves in homes that control emissions and burn more efficiently were the main drivers leading to the reductions. Since 2010, however, emissions from dust and fires have gradually increased, as a result of an increase from road dust and dust from construction operations, with a significant decrease between 2019 and 2020, offsetting reductions from the other sources. The increase in emission in 2021 is driven predominantly by increased use of unpaved roads.

Table 1. Source emissions changes between 1990 and 2021
Source PM2.5
(change in kilotonnes from
1990 to 2021)
PM2.5
(percentage change from
1990 to 2021)
Dust and fires 376.8 71.1
Miscellaneous 1.6 11.7
Building heating and energy generation 0.3 7.2
Oil and gas 2.3 19.2
Paints and solvents 0.04 n/a
Incineration and waste -0.7 -20.9
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) -24.2 -72.6
Ore and mineral industries -16.1 -29.8
Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment -20.1 -54.1
Electric utilities -46.5 -95.8
Manufacturing -94.2 -82.7
Home firewood burning -64.4 -46.1
Agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) -316.4 -46.9
All sources -201.4 -12.1

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Note:  n/a = not available. The changes have been calculated using source data that are not rounded.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

Fine particulate matter emissions by province and territory

Key results

  • In 2021, Alberta emitted the most PM2.5. The province represented 35% (517 kt) of total national emissions
  • Between 1990 and 2021, all provinces and territories, with the exception of Alberta, decreased their emissions
    • The largest decrease was observed in Saskatchewan with 93 kt (17%)
    • Alberta's PM2.5 emissions increased by 88 kt (21%)

Fine particulate matter emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990 and 2021

Fine particulate matter emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990 and 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Fine particulate matter emissions by province and territory, Canada, 1990, 2005 and 2021
Province or territory 1990
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2005
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2021
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990, excluding
open sources [A]
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2005, excluding
open sources [A]
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2021, excluding
open sources [A]
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Newfoundland and Labrador 18.6 13.0 13.3 12.6 8.6 5.1
Prince Edward Island 4.6 3.9 3.3 2.1 1.8 1.3
Nova Scotia 27.7 19.7 14.0 18.8 12.8 6.9
New Brunswick 26.3 17.8 10.8 18.0 13.1 5.4
Quebec 140.9 112.2 118.1 96.1 72.3 56.3
Ontario 205.6 161.3 171.6 108.2 70.6 45.9
Manitoba 107.5 89.5 96.4 13.4 9.6 6.2
Saskatchewan 541.6 400.2 448.5 21.9 17.6 12.8
Alberta 429.0 347.2 517.2 68.2 33.5 29.6
British Columbia 153.4 68.0 62.5 99.4 41.2 28.3
Yukon 4.1 2.7 2.3 0.5 0.3 0.2
Northwest Territories 5.2[B] 3.8 3.4 1.6[B] 0.9 0.6
Nunavut[B] n/a 1.3 1.6 n/a 0.6 0.3

Note: [A] Open sources include emissions associated with dust and fires and agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer). [B]1990 emissions data for the Northwest Territories include emissions for Nunavut, which was part of the Northwest Territories until 1999. n/a = not applicable.

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires and from vegetation.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, Alberta was the highest emitting province of PM2.5 emissions, accounting for 35% (517 kt) of total national emissions. Dust and fires (specifically road dust and dust from construction operations) were the largest sources of PM2.5 emissions in the province. The increase in emissions in Alberta between 1990 and 2021 can be attributed to growth in construction operations for the oil and gas industries. Since 2005, total emissions in the province increased by 170 kt (49%).

Saskatchewan ranked second in 2021, with 31% (449 kt) of PM2.5 emissions. Dust and fires (specifically road dust and dust from construction operations) were the largest sources, with agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) being the second-largest source of PM2.5.

Ontario ranked third, with 12% (172 kt), and Quebec ranked fourth with 8% (118 kt). For these 2 provinces, dust and fires were the largest source of emissions.

The exclusion of emissions from dust and fires and agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) provides a different breakdown of PM2.5 emissions in each province and territory. With these emissions removed, Quebec becomes the largest emitting province of PM2.5 in 2021, representing 28% (56 kt) of total emissions (199 kt). Ontario ranks second with 23% (46 kt) of emissions. Alberta and British Columbia rank third and fourth, representing 15% and 14% (30 kt and 28 kt, respectively) of emissions. Between 1990 and 2021, with dust, fires and agriculture excluded, all of the provinces and territories experienced emissions reductions between 72% (British Columbia, with a 71 kt emission reduction) and 39% (Prince Edward Island, with a 0.8 kt emission reduction).

Fine particulate matter emissions by facilities

The National Pollutant Release Inventory provides detailed information on air pollutant emissions from industrial and commercial facilities that meet its reporting criteria.

The Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators provide access to this information through an interactive map. The map allows you to explore PM2.5 emissions from individual facilities.

In 2021, 4 416 facilities across Canada reported PM2.5 emissions representing 4% of total national emissions. Of these facilities: 

  • 2 445 facilities reported emissions under 1 tonne (t)
  • 1 882 facilities reported emissions between 1 to 100 t
  • 89 facilities reported emissions of 100 t or more located in Quebec (20), Alberta (17), British Columbia (17), Ontario (17), Saskatchewan (9), Newfoundland and Labrador (4), New Brunswick (2), Northwest Territories and Nunavut (2) and Manitoba (1)

Fine particulate matter by reporting facilities, Canada, 2021

Fine particulate matter by reporting facilities, Canada, 2016 (see long description below)
Long description

The map of Canada shows the amount of fine particulate matter emissions in tonnes in 2021 by reporting facility. The categories are: 0 to 0.5 tonne, 0.5 to 1 tonne, 1 to 5 tonnes, 5 to 25 tonnes, 25 to 100 tonnes and 100 tonnes or more.

Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) National Pollutant Release Inventory.

Navigate data using the interactive map

Black carbon

Black carbon emissions by source

Black carbon is a component of PM2.5 and is generated by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels and biomass. It is a short-lived climate pollutant, and is linked to both climate warming and adverse human health effects. Reductions in black carbon emissions have near-immediate climate and local benefits.

Key results

  • Emissions of black carbon were 26 kt in 2021, a decrease of 30% from 2013 
  • In 2021, 3 sectors accounted for 81% of national black carbon emissions:
    • off-road vehicles and mobile equipment
    • home firewood burning
    • transportation (road, rail, air and marine) 

Total black carbon emissions by source, Canada, 2013 to 2021

Total black carbon emissions by source, Canada, 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Total black carbon emissions by source, Canada, 2013 to 2021
Year Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Home firewood burning (emissions in kilotonnes) Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) (emissions in kilotonnes) Oil and gas industry (emissions in kilotonnes) Building heating and energy generation (emissions in kilotonnes) Other sources (emissions in kilotonnes) Total emissions (emissions in kilotonnes)
2013 13.7 8.0 10.3 2.6 1.0 1.4 37.0
2014 12.6 8.0 9.3 3.0 1.1 1.3 35.3
2015 13.1 7.7 7.8 2.8 1.0 1.3 33.7
2016 12.3 7.2 6.5 2.4 1.1 1.1 30.7
2017 13.0 7.2 6.0 2.5 1.2 1.2 31.1
2018 12.6 7.6 6.0 2.6 1.2 1.1 31.2
2019 11.8 7.4 5.6 2.5 1.3 1.1 29.8
2020 10.0 6.8 4.8 2.5 1.2 1.0 26.4
2021 9.6 6.5 5.0 2.7 1.2 1.1 26.0

Note: The numbers have been rounded off and their sum may not correspond to the total.

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires. The chart includes emissions from the most significant sources of black carbon. "Other sources" includes emissions from ore and mineral industries, manufacturing, electric utilities and agriculture. Consult Table 2 in the Data sources and methods for more details.  New interactive figures provide a dynamic and customizable format to explore the emissions.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Canada's Black Carbon Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment (for example, lawn and garden equipment, recreational vehicles, excavators, graders) accounted for the largest proportion of total national emissions, representing 37% (10 kt) of emissions. Home firewood burning and transportation (road, rail, air and marine) were also large contributors, representing 25% (6 kt) and 19% (5 kt) of total national emissions. The remaining 19% of emissions came from the oil and gas industry, building heating and energy generation and other sources (such as ore and mineral industries).

Black carbon emissions by province and territory

Key results

  • In 2021, 3 provinces, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, accounted for 61% (16 kt) of total national black carbon emissions
  • Between 2013 and 2021,
    • all provinces and territories, with the exception of Prince Edward Island, experienced reductions in black carbon emissions between 12% to 64%
    • Ontario and Quebec experienced the largest reductions in emissions with decreases of 2.1 kt and 2.6 kt, respectively. For both provinces, the reductions were mainly attributable to lower emissions from transportation (road, rail, air and marine) and off-road vehicles and mobile equipment

Black carbon emissions by province and territory, Canada, 2013 and 2021

Total black carbon emissions by source, Canada, 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data for the long description 
Black carbon emissions by province and territory, Canada, 2013 and 2021
Province or territory 2013
(emissions in kilotonnes)
2021
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Newfoundland and Labrador 0.9 0.8
Prince Edward Island 0.2 0.2
Nova Scotia 1.3 0.8
New Brunswick 1.4 0.5
Quebec 7.7 5.1
Ontario 7.2 5.2
Manitoba 1.6 1.1
Saskatchewan 4.3 3.4
Alberta 7.8 5.7
British Columbia 3.9 2.8
Yukon 0.1 0.1
Northwest Territories 0.5 0.3
Nunavut 0.2 0.1

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: The indicator reports air pollutant emissions from human activities only. It does not include emissions from natural sources such as forest fires.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Canada's Black Carbon Emissions Inventory.

Alberta, Ontario and Quebec had the highest black carbon emissions in 2021.

Emissions in Alberta primarily came from 3 sources: off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, transportation (road, rail, air and marine) and the oil and gas industry representing 91% (5 kt) of the emissions.

Ontario's emissions also came primarily from off-road vehicles and mobile equipment (1.7 kt), and transportation (road, rail, air and marine) (1.1 kt) as well as home firewood burning (1.6 kt), representing 84% of emissions in the province.

In Quebec, emissions came primarily from home firewood burning representing 54% (2.7 kt) of emissions. 

By sector
Oil and gas industry

Air pollutant emissions from the oil and gas industry

The oil and gas sector is an important contributor to air pollutant emissions. Most emissions from the oil and gas sector come from upstream (i.e., exploration, drilling, production and field processing) activities and to a lesser extent from downstream (i.e., refining, storage and distribution) activities. Air pollutants are responsible for the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), ozone (O3), smog and acid rain. They also adversely affect human health, the environment, and the economy. 

Key results

Contribution of the oil and gas industry to total air pollutant emissions by activity type, Canada, 2021

 

Contribution of the oil and gas industry to air pollutant emissions by activity type, Canada, 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Contribution of the oil and gas industry to total air pollutant emissions by activity type, Canada, 2021
Activity type Sulphur oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Volatile organic compounds
(percentage of national emissions)
Nitrogen oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Carbon monoxide
(percentage of national emissions)
Fine particulate matter
(percentage of national emissions)
Ammonia
(percentage of national emissions)
Upstream oil and gas 34.1 35.2 32.0 10.9 0.9 0.4
Downstream oil and gas 7.1 1.6 1.2 0.8 0.1 <0.1
Contribution of the oil and gas industry to total air pollutant emissions by activity type, Canada, 2021
Activity type Sulphur oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Volatile organic compounds
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Nitrogen oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Carbon monoxide
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Fine particulate matter
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Ammonia
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Upstream oil and gas 218.5 493.2 422.5 500.3 13.0 2.2
Downstream oil and gas 45.8 22.5 16.5 35.9 1.3 <0.1

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How this indicator was calculated

Note:  In the oil and gas industry, upstream activities include exploration, drilling, production and field processing and downstream activities include refining, storage and distribution.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, the oil and gas industry was the sector contributing the most to total national emissions of SOX, VOCs and NOX. It was also the third-largest contributor to emissions of CO.

Most emissions from the oil and gas industry came from upstream activities compared to downstream activities. In 2021, 98% of NH3, 96% of VOC and NOX, 93% of CO, 91% of PM2.5 and 83% of SOX emissions from the oil and gas sector were from upstream activities.

Changes in emissions from the oil and gas industry

Key results

  • Emissions of SOX and VOC emissions decreased 51% and 14% , respectively, between 1990 and 2021
  • CO and NOX increased by 61% and 28% over that period

Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from the oil and gas industry, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from the oil and gas industry, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from the oil and gas industry, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Carbon monoxide
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Nitrogen oxides
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Volatile organic compounds
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Sulphur oxides
(percentage change from 1990 level)
1990 0 0 0 0
1991 -3 -2 -1 1
1992 1 3 1 9
1993 8 10 6 14
1994 19 19 9 13
1995 21 24 11 12
1996 25 28 15 12
1997 40 40 13 4
1998 45 44 15 -2
1999 49 49 7 -3
2000 32 33 10 -4
2001 40 31 11 -7
2002 50 32 12 -12
2003 58 43 11 -11
2004 50 24 8 -12
2005 48 24 7 -14
2006 51 24 4 -21
2007 56 31 3 -25
2008 62 34 4 -29
2009 57 32 -3 -30
2010 55 30 -6 -36
2011 58 33 -8 -38
2012 58 31 0 -38
2013 68 32 8 -40
2014 63 34 13 -46
2015 65 35 9 -51
2016 60 33 -1 -54
2017 64 35 1 -52
2018 69 37 5 -50
2019 61 36 1 -50
2020 53 29 -13 -54
2021 61 28 -14 -51
Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from the oil and gas industry, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Carbon monoxide
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Nitrogen oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Volatile organic compounds
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Sulphur oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 334 344 599 537
1991 324 337 594 543
1992 339 353 608 583
1993 361 379 636 610
1994 398 410 652 607
1995 406 426 663 601
1996 418 438 691 600
1997 467 482 677 556
1998 485 494 689 527
1999 498 511 644 519
2000 443 457 658 517
2001 467 451 662 501
2002 500 452 674 471
2003 529 493 668 478
2004 502 427 647 470
2005 493 428 644 464
2006 503 427 622 426
2007 522 450 618 405
2008 539 460 625 380
2009 524 455 580 374
2010 519 445 561 342
2011 528 457 549 331
2012 529 450 598 333
2013 560 453 646 320
2014 545 462 679 290
2015 552 463 654 264
2016 533 456 591 250
2017 547 464 608 258
2018 564 470 627 270
2019 538 468 606 270
2020 510 444 521 245
2021 536 439 516 264

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: Fine particulate matter and ammonia are not shown in the chart due to their low share (≤ 1%) of total emissions in 2021.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

The increases in CO and NOX emissions between 1990 and 2021 were due to growth in oil and gas production (the upstream sector of the industry), as emissions from the downstream sector declined due to facility closures during that period.Footnote 9  This increase is in part explained by the fact that crude oil production more than doubled in Canada since 1990. The growth was mostly driven by a rapid increase in oil sands production. During the same period, production of natural gas from unconventional sources, such as those requiring the use of multi-stage fracturing techniques, also increased significantly.

The decrease in SOX emissions was mostly the result of a decrease in emissions from oil sands mining, extraction and upgrading, and natural gas production and processing, attributed to better emission control technologies.

For VOCs, the recent decline was partly due to reductions in crude oil production and petroleum refining, storage and distribution. In addition in 2020, federal and provincial regulations to reduce fugitive emissions from the sector came into effect contributing further to the decline.

Transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment

Air pollutant emissions from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment

Transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment are among the largest sources of air pollutants in Canada. Burning fossil fuels to power vehicles and engines causes emissions of many air pollutants. Air pollutants are responsible for the formation of fine particulate matter, ozone, smog and acid rain. They also adversely affect human health, the environment and the economy.

Key results

Contribution of transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment to total air pollutant emissions by transportation mode, Canada, 2021

Contribution of transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment to air pollutant emissions by transportation mode, Canada, 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Contribution of transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment to total air pollutant emissions by transportation mode, Canada, 2021
Transportation mode Carbon monoxide
(percentage of national emissions)
Nitrogen oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Volatile organic compounds
(percentage of national emissions)
Fine particulate matter
(percentage of national emissions)
Sulphur oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Ammonia
(percentage of national emissions)
Passenger cars and motorcycles 7.6 0.9 1.5 <0.1 <0.1 0.4
Passenger light trucks 10.6 1.6 1.7 <0.1 <0.1 0.6
Large trucks and buses 3.0 9.9 0.8 0.3 <0.1 0.2
Air, marine and rail travel 1.0 15.2 0.6 0.2 0.4 <0.1
Off-road vehicles and equipment, tire wear and brake lining 38.3 14.5 10.3 1.2 <0.1 <0.1
Contribution of transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment to total air pollutant emissions by transportation mode, Canada, 2021
Transportation mode Carbon monoxide
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Nitrogen oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Volatile organic compounds
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Fine particulate matter
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Sulphur oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Ammonia
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Passenger cars and motorcycles 347.1 11.8 21.3 0.4 0.1 1.9
Passenger light trucks 489.1 21.8 24.1 0.8 0.3 3.0
Large trucks and buses 138.6 130.2 11.0 3.9 0.1 1.1
Air, marine and rail travel 45.1 200.8 9.0 2.9 2.3 <0.1
Off-road vehicles and equipment, tire wear and brake lining 1 760.5 191.8 144.6 18.1 0.2 0.4

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: "Passenger cars and motorcycles" include cars powered by motor gasoline, diesel, liquefied petroleum gas and compressed natural gas engines as well as all types of motorcycles. "Passenger light trucks" include light-duty trucks powered by motor gasoline, diesel, liquefied petroleum gas and compressed natural gas engines. "Large trucks and buses" include heavy-duty trucks powered by motor gasoline, diesel, liquefied petroleum gas and compressed natural gas engines.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

The contribution of each transportation mode to emissions of different air pollutants is in large part explained by the mix of fuels used in these modes.

Large trucks and buses, and rail and marine travel rely predominantly on diesel fuel. Aviation relies on turbo aviation fuel. These transportation modes are the largest sources of NOX transportation-related emissions accounting for 35% (461 kilotonnes [kt]) of total NOX emissions.

Passenger cars and light trucks mostly use gasoline and are an important source of pollutants, especially in urban centres. In 2021, emissions from passenger cars, motorcycles and light trucks amounted to 836 kt of CO, 34 kt of NOX and 45 kt of VOCs. These emissions represented 18%, 3% and 3% of all emissions of these pollutants respectively.

Other sources (mainly composed of off-road vehicles and equipment)Footnote 10  are also a significant source of pollution. Their combined emissions make up 38%, 15% and 10% of the total emissions of CO, NOX and VOCs, respectively. Emissions mostly come from household use of gasoline- or diesel-powered recreational and lawn and garden equipment and from the operation of agricultural, construction and mining equipment.

Changes in emissions from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment

Key results

  • Between 1990 and 2021, total emissions of NOX, VOCs and CO from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment decreased by 56%, 67% and 71%, respectively
  • Since 2000, all 3 pollutants demonstrated the same downward trend in their emissions level

Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Nitrogen oxides
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Carbon monoxide
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Volatile organic compounds
(percentage change from 1990 level)
1990 0 0 0
1991 -3 -5 -2
1992 0 -5 1
1993 6 -5 5
1994 15 -4 11
1995 18 -2 19
1996 22 -3 23
1997 26 -4 27
1998 25 -5 29
1999 25 -7 31
2000 23 -9 27
2001 16 -11 25
2002 11 -13 22
2003 7 -19 16
2004 3 -24 11
2005 -1 -31 3
2006 -7 -36 -5
2007 -10 -46 -13
2008 -15 -50 -21
2009 -22 -53 -26
2010 -23 -51 -27
2011 -29 -56 -35
2012 -34 -59 -40
2013 -37 -60 -44
2014 -41 -64 -51
2015 -45 -66 -54
2016 -50 -66 -55
2017 -49 -67 -58
2018 -51 -67 -60
2019 -52 -68 -61
2020 -57 -72 -67
2021 -56 -71 -67
Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Nitrogen oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Carbon monoxide
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Volatile organic compounds
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 1 269 9 655 637
1991 1 230 9 205 625
1992 1 272 9 201 644
1993 1 344 9 128 668
1994 1 458 9 236 706
1995 1 502 9 454 756
1996 1 545 9 338 785
1997 1 594 9 226 807
1998 1 590 9 134 825
1999 1 581 8 946 833
2000 1 563 8 791 810
2001 1 476 8 593 796
2002 1 409 8 434 779
2003 1 359 7 840 737
2004 1 306 7 335 706
2005 1 252 6 665 656
2006 1 177 6 152 608
2007 1 139 5 261 557
2008 1 084 4 807 506
2009 991 4 579 472
2010 983 4 761 466
2011 907 4 278 416
2012 842 3 985 383
2013 803 3 849 359
2014 748 3 431 314
2015 699 3 273 295
2016 637 3 309 285
2017 649 3 212 269
2018 626 3 150 257
2019 614 3 091 246
2020 547 2 709 213
2021 556 2 780 210

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: Fine particulate matter, sulphur oxides and ammonia are not shown in the chart due to their low share (≤ 5%) of total emissions in 2021.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

Pollutant emissions have decreased despite economic and population growth as well as growth in transport activities for the period between 1990 and 2021. This decrease is mainly attributable to the adoption of new regulations that lead to the gradual introduction of emission control technologies and clean fuel for vehicles.

Between 1990 and 2000, NOX emissions increased by 23%. It includes the increase in emissions from light trucks (116%), large trucks and buses (20%) and marine transportation (19%). From 2000 to 2021, new regulations contributed to a decrease in emissions from light trucks (91%), large trucks and buses (71%) and emissions from marine travel by 65%. Emissions from air, marine and rail travel represented 15% of national emissions of NOX in 2021.

Transportation emissions are influenced by a variety of factors. These include population and economic growth, volume of passenger and freight travel, vehicle type, emission control technologies, fuel efficiency and fuel type.

Electric utilities

Air pollutant emissions from the electric utilities

Electricity generation produces a large share of total national sulphur oxides (SOX) and nitrogen oxides (NOX). SOX and NOX are mostly emitted from power plants burning fossil fuels such as coal and, to a lesser extent, natural gas and diesel. These air pollutants are responsible for the formation of fine particulate matter, ozone, smog and acid rain. They also adversely affect human health, the environment, and the economy.

Key results

Contribution of electric utilities to total air pollutant emissions by fuel source, Canada, 2021

Contribution of electric utilities to air pollutant emissions by fuel source, Canada, 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Contribution of electric utilities to total air pollutant emissions by fuel source, Canada, 2021
Fuel source Sulphur oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Nitrogen oxides
(percentage of national emissions)
Carbon monoxide
(percentage of national emissions)
Fine particulate matter
(percentage of national emissions)
Volatile organic compounds
(percentage of national emissions)
Ammonia
(percentage of national emissions)
Coal 24.9 5.1 0.4 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Natural gas 0.2 1.3 0.2 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Diesel <0.1 0.7 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 n/a
Other sources 1.3 0.5 0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Contribution of electric utilities to total air pollutant emissions by fuel source. Canada, 2021
Fuel source Sulphur oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Nitrogen oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Carbon monoxide
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Fine particulate matter
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Volatile organic compounds
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Ammonia
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Coal 159.2 66.8 17.1 1.2 0.3 <0.1
Natural gas 1.3 17.7 11.3 0.3 1.0 0.1
Diesel <0.1 9.6 2.0 0.2 0.1 n/a
Other sources 8.4 7.0 6.8 0.3 0.2 0.1

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Note: n/a = not available.

How this indicator was calculated

Note: Carbon monoxide, fine particulate matter, volatile organic compounds and ammonia are not shown in the chart due to their low share (≤ 1%) of total emissions in 2021. The indicator excludes emissions from industries that generate electricity and heat as a supporting activity rather than as their primary purpose. "Other sources" include fuel sources such as waste material and other uncategorized sources of electricity generation.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

In 2021, 94% of SOX and 66% of NOX emissions from electric utilities came from burning coal.

While generating electricity by burning fossil fuels causes air pollutant emissions, the use of non-fossil energy sources, such as wind, nuclear and other renewable sources to generate electricity does not emit air pollutants. A large share of the electricity generated in Canada comes from sources that do not emit air pollutants:

  • 60% of electricity comes from hydro
  • 15% comes from nuclear power plants
  • 8% comes from non-hydro renewable sources, such as wind, solar, tidal power and biomassFootnote 11 

Changes in emissions from electric utilities

Key results

  • Emissions of SOX and NOX from electric utilities declined by 73% and 61%, respectively, between 1990 and 2021
  • Most of that decline occurred from 2005 onward

Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from electric utilities, Canada, 1990 to 2021

Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from electric utilities, Canada, 1990 to 2016 (see data table below for the long description)
Data table for the long description
Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from electric utilities, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Sulphur oxides
(percentage change from 1990 level)
Nitrogen oxides
(percentage change from 1990 level)
1990 0 0
1991 -4 -2
1992 -1 2
1993 -12 -5
1994 -9 -7
1995 -14 -3
1996 -12 5
1997 -4 12
1998 -2 21
1999 -3 19
2000 0 27
2001 1 22
2002 1 23
2003 2 14
2004 -6 4
2005 -16 -1
2006 -26 -13
2007 -20 -7
2008 -31 -12
2009 -38 -15
2010 -46 -9
2011 -53 -22
2012 -54 -35
2013 -55 -37
2014 -56 -35
2015 -59 -41
2016 -59 -41
2017 -60 -44
2018 -64 -50
2019 -67 -51
2020 -73 -60
2021 -73 -61
Changes in emissions of key air pollutants from electric utilities, Canada, 1990 to 2021
Year Sulphur oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
Nitrogen oxides
(emissions in kilotonnes)
1990 618 257
1991 592 251
1992 611 263
1993 547 243
1994 560 240
1995 533 248
1996 542 269
1997 591 288
1998 604 310
1999 601 306
2000 619 327
2001 624 313
2002 624 315
2003 630 293
2004 582 267
2005 522 254
2006 459 224
2007 492 239
2008 427 225
2009 384 218
2010 334 234
2011 293 200
2012 284 166
2013 278 162
2014 269 167
2015 251 152
2016 253 152
2017 245 145
2018 220 129
2019 205 125
2020 168 102
2021 169 101

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How this indicator was calculated

Note: Carbon monoxide, fine particulate matter, volatile organic compounds and ammonia are not shown in the chart due to their low share (≤ 1%) of total emissions in 2021. Excludes emissions from industries that generate electricity and heat as a supporting activity rather than as their primary purpose.
Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

The majority of the decline in SOX and NOX emissions between 1990 and 2020 occurred from 2005 onwards. The majority of the decline in SOX and NOX emissions between 1990 and 2021 occurred from 2005 onwards. Between 2005 and 2021, the share of electricity that came from burning fossil fuels fell from 22% to 20%. This decrease was mostly the result of a drop in electricity generation from coal power plants.Footnote 12  The emissions reductions since 2005 are mainly due to:

  • the change in the mix of energy sources used to generate electricity
  • the introduction of regulations
  • domestic and international agreements
  • better removal technologies
  • plant closures
About the indicators

About the indicators

What the indicators measure

Air pollutant emissions indicators track emissions from human activities of 6 key air pollutants: sulphur oxides (SOX), nitrogen oxides (NOX), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia (NH3), carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Black carbon, which is a component of PM2.5, is also reported.Footnote 13  Sectoral indicators on air pollutant emissions from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, electric utilities and the oil and gas industry provide additional analysis on the largest sources of Canada's air pollutant emissions.

For each air pollutant, the indicators are provided at the national and provincial/territorial levels. They also identify the major sources of emissions and provide links to detailed information on air pollutant emissions from facilities.Footnote 14 

Why these indicators are important

Canadians are exposed to air pollutants on a daily basis, which can cause adverse health and environmental effects. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ground-level ozone (O3) are key components of smog and have been associated with pulmonary and cardiovascular health issues even at very low levels. While causing effects of their own, NOX (such as nitrogen dioxide [NO2]) and VOCs are the main contributors to the formation of O3. Nitrogen oxides, SOX (such as sulphur dioxide [SO2]), NH3 and VOCs also lead to the formation of PM2.5 in the air, in addition to the PM2.5 that is emitted directly. Sulphur oxides and NOX can also lead to the formation of acid deposition (acid rain) that can harm the environment, materials, living organisms, and humans.

Consult Air pollution: drivers and impacts for information on the impacts of air pollution on health, the economy and the environment, as well as information on the federal regulations administered under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (1999) addressing air pollution.

Black carbon is an air pollutant as well as a powerful climate forcer. Black carbon is of particular significance in polar regions, where the deposition of particles on ice and snow darken the surface, increasing the absorption of sunlight, and accelerate melting. Climate modelling shows that cutting emissions of black carbon is the most powerful action available to countries to slow the pace of near-term warming in the Arctic, a region that is already warming at 3 times the global average.

The Air pollutant emissions indicators are intended to inform Canadians and decision makers about progress made towards reducing emissions from human-related sources of air pollutants and about the effectiveness of emission reduction measures in reducing emissions to improve ambient air quality in Canada.

Related initiatives

These indicators support the measurement of progress towards the following 2022 to 2026 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy Goal 11: Improve access to affordable housing, clean air, transportation, parks, and green spaces, as well as cultural heritage in Canada. 

In addition, the indicators contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. They are linked to the 2030 Agenda's Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and Target 11.6: "By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management."

The indicators also help Canada report against its international compliance commitments under the Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution's amended Gothenburg Protocol. Under the amended protocol, Canada has committed to emission reductions by 2020 and beyond for 4 air pollutants:

  • sulphur dioxide (SOX) (55% reduction from 2005 levels by 2020 and beyond)
  • nitrogen oxides (NOX) (35% reduction from 2005 levels by 2020 and beyond)
  • volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (20% reduction from 2005 levels by 2020 and beyond)
  • fine particulate matter (PM2.5) (25% reduction from 2005 levels by 2020 and beyond)

Canada has been able to meet its emissions reduction commitments. In 2021, emissions were:

  • 69% below 2005 levels for SOX
  • 42% below 2005 levels for NOX
  • 39% below 2005 levels for VOCs
  • 30% below 2005 levels for PM2.5 (excludes open source emissions from road dust, construction operations, and crop production)

Related indicators

The Air health trends indicator provides an overview of the public health impacts attributable to outdoor air pollution in Canada.

The Air quality indicators track ambient concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), ozone (O3), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at the national and regional levels and at local monitoring stations. 

The Emissions of harmful substances to air indicators track human-related emissions to air of 3 toxic substances, namely mercury, lead and cadmium, and their compounds. For each substance, data are provided at the national, provincial/territorial and facility level and by source. Global emissions to air are also provided for mercury. 

The Greenhouse gas emissions indicators report trends in total anthropogenic (human-made) GHG emissions at the national level, per person and per unit gross domestic product, by province and territory and by economic sector.

The Greenhouse gas emissions from large facilities indicator reports GHG emissions from the largest GHG emitters in Canada (industrial and other types of facilities). 

The International comparison: air pollutant emissions in selected countries indicators compare Canada's emissions of 5 key air pollutants with those of top emitting member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). 

The Population exposure to outdoor air pollutants indicator tracks the proportion of the Canadian population living in areas where outdoor concentrations of air pollutants are less than or equal to the 2020 Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Data sources and methods

Data sources and methods

Data sources

The Air pollutant emissions indicators track emissions of 6 key air pollutants: sulphur oxides (SOX), nitrogen oxides (NOX), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia (NH3), carbon monoxide (CO) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The emissions data used are from Canada's Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory for the years 1990 to 2021.

Data for the black carbon indicator, a component of PM2.5, come from Canada's Black Carbon Emissions Inventory and are reported for the years 2013 to 2021 by source at the national level and by province and territory.

Facility data for local air pollutant emissions reported in interactive maps come from the National Pollutant Release Inventory and are available for the years 1993 to 2021.

More information

The Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory and the Black Carbon Emissions Inventory provide data and estimates on releases of air pollutants from human activities. These pollutants contribute to smog, acid rain, reduced air quality and climate change. Improvements to data and the analysis of trends are made periodically as new emission estimation methodologies are adopted and additional information is made available. Historical emissions are updated on the basis of these improvements.

Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory

The Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory fulfills many of Canada's international pollution levels reporting obligations. Specifically, under the 1979 Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution, Canada is committed to submitting an annual inventory of emissions of key air pollutants to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. The inventory is a comprehensive assessment of 17 air pollutantsFootnote 15 , combining emissions reported by facilities to the National Pollutant Release Inventory, with emissions estimated by Environment and Climate Change Canada. Estimates are developed using the latest estimation methods and are based on published statistics or other sources of information such as surveys and reports. The Air Pollutant Emission Inventory provides a comprehensive overview of pollutant emissions across Canada.

The national and provincial/territorial inventory data are current as of March 15, 2023, and cover the period from 1990 to 2021. Emissions data are compiled into a database for reporting approximately one year after data collection, validation and calculation have been completed. After this process is the interpretation of results and public reporting of the inventory. The Air pollutant emissions indicators are reported following the public release of the inventory data.

Black carbon emissions inventory

As a member of the Arctic Council, Canada committed under the Framework for Action on Enhanced Black Carbon and Methane Emissions Reductions to submit annual inventories of its black carbon emissions to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe beginning in 2015. The Black Carbon Emissions Inventory is compiled using PM2.5 emissions data from combustion-related sources from the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory. Black carbon estimates are published separately from the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory. The data are current as of March 15, 2023.

Black carbon is considered a short-lived climate pollutant, meaning it has a relatively short lifespan in the atmosphere (from a few days to a few weeks) compared to carbon dioxide (CO2) (which can persist in the atmosphere for thousands of years) and other longer-lived greenhouse gases (GHGs). Although their life spans are short, short-lived climate pollutants are potent global warmers contributing to warming of the Earth's surface.Footnote 16   When black carbon deposits on snow and ice, it darkens the surface, accelerating heating and melting, creating a warming impact that is particularly strong in the Arctic and other snow covered areas (including glaciers).Footnote 17  Short-lived climate pollutants, including black carbon, are important pollutants to consider when addressing climate change because they can respond relatively quickly to efforts to control their releases and thus impact near-term warming. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) special report on Global Warming states that reductions in short-lived climate pollutants are required to limit warming to a maximum of 1.5oC, and Canada's Changing Climate Report flags short-lived climate pollutants as an important part of climate policy discussions.

National Pollutant Release Inventory

The National Pollutant Release Inventory is a database of pollutant releases (to air, water and land), disposals and transfers for recycling from industrial, commercial and institutional facilities. The data from these facilities is provided by the operators of the facilities as mandated by the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (the Act). Under the Act, owners or operators of facilities that manufacture, process or otherwise use or release one or more of the substances tracked by the inventory, and meet substance-specific reporting thresholds and other requirements, must report their pollutant releases, disposals and transfers annually to the department. The inventory data from 1993 to 2021 are current as of January 4, 2023.

Methods

Emissions data from Canada's national inventories are used to produce the indicators for the 6 key air pollutants. Data are grouped to report on the sources that contribute the majority of emissions for each pollutant. Canada's national inventories use the latest advancements in scientific knowledge to estimate or measure emissions for the various air pollutant sources.

More information

Compilation of air pollutant emissions

The Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory is developed using 2 types of information:

  • facility-reported data, consisting of emissions from relatively large industrial, commercial and institutional facilities
  • in-house estimates, including diffuse sources and other sources that are too numerous to be accounted for individually, such as road and non-road vehicles, agricultural activities, construction and solvent use

The Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory is developed using many sources of information, procedures and emission estimation models. Emissions data reported by individual facilities to the department's National Pollutant Release Inventory are supplemented with documented, science-based estimation tools to quantify total emissions. Together, these data sources provide a comprehensive overview of pollutant emissions across Canada.

A compilation framework has been developed that makes use of the best available data, while ensuring that there is no double-counting or omissions. Additional information on the inventory compilation process is provided in Chapter 3 (PDF;4.81 MB) of the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory Report.

Facility-reported emissions data

Facility-reported emissions data generally refers to any stationary sources that emit pollutants through stacks or other equipment at specific locations. The major source of facility-reported data is the National Pollutant Release Inventory.

Facility-reported data from the National Pollutant Release Inventory are used in the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory without modifications, except when data quality issues are detected and not addressed during the quality control exercise. The National Pollutant Release Inventory reporting requirements and thresholds vary by pollutant and, in some cases, by industry. Details on these reporting requirements and thresholds are available on the National Pollutant Release Inventory website.

A distinction has been made between reporting facilities and non-reporting facilities. Reporting facilities meet the threshold required to report to the National Pollutant Release Inventory; while non-reporting facilities do not meet these thresholds due to their size or emission levels, and therefore are not required to report to the inventory. Some facilities may be required to report emissions on only certain pollutants. Therefore, emissions from the non-reporting facilities or of non-reported pollutants must be estimated in‑house to ensure complete coverage.

In-house emission estimates

In-house emission estimates are calculated with information such as production data and activity data, using various estimation methodologies and emission models. These emission estimates are at the national level rather than at any specific geographic locations. These include emissions from non-industrial, residential, commercial, transportation, and other sources, such as open burning, agricultural activities and construction operations. The Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory uses in-house estimates for the following emission sources:

  • any residential, governmental, institutional, or commercial operation that does not report to the National Pollutant Release Inventory
  • on-site solid waste disposal facilities
  • motor vehicles, aircraft, vessels or other transportation equipment or devices
  • other sources, such as open burning, agricultural activities and construction operations

In general, in-house emission estimates are calculated from activity data and emission factors.Footnote 18   Activity data usually comprise statistical production or process data at the provincial, territorial or national level. This information is typically provided by provincial/territorial agencies, federal government departments, industry associations, etc. For each source category, activity data are combined with emission factors to produce provincial/territorial-level emission estimates.

The in-house emission estimate methodologies and emission models used in Canada are often based on those developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and are adapted to reflect the Canadian climate, fuels, technologies and practices. Methods used in Canada's Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory are therefore generally consistent with those used in the United States or those recommended in the emission inventory guidebook.Footnote 19

The Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory reports air pollutant emissions from mobile sources such as on-road vehicles, off-road vehicles and engines. For the current edition of the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory, an emissions estimation model developed by the U.S. EPA (MOVES) was used. The emissions for off-road vehicles and engines (such as graders, heavy trucks, outboard motors and lawnmowers) were estimated using the U.S. EPA's NONROAD emission estimation model (see "off-road vehicles and equipment" in Table A2-4 of Annex 2 (PDF;4.81 MB) of the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory Report). The parameters in both models were modified to take into account variations in the Canadian vehicle fleet, emission control technologies, types of fuels, vehicle standards, and types of equipment engines and their application in various industries. The emission estimates for civil and international aviation, railways and navigation are estimated using detailed vehicle movement statistics coupled with fuel consumption, engine information, and emission rates by vehicle types.

Calculation of black carbon emissions

Emissions of black carbon are calculated by applying factors to estimate the fraction of black carbon in PM2.5 emissions from combustion-related sources, with the exception of mobile sources, where models are used. The factors primarily come from the United States Environmental Protection Agency's SPECIATE database. SPECIATE is a repository of particulate matter speciation profilesFootnote 20  of air pollution sources. Annex 2 of Canada's Black Carbon Emissions Inventory lists all the ratios used for each source.

Recalculations

Emission recalculation is an essential practice in the maintenance of an up-to-date air pollutant emissions inventory. The Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory is continuously updated with improved estimation methodologies, statistics and more recent and appropriate emission factors. As new information and data become available, previous estimates are updated and recalculated to ensure a consistent and comparable trend in emissions. Recalculations of previously reported emission estimates are common for both in-house estimates and facility-reported emission data. More information on recalculations is provided in Annex 3 (PDF;4.81 MB) of the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory Report.

Emissions reconciliation

In several sectors, estimation of total emissions involves combining estimates provided by facilities with estimates developed in-house by the department. To prevent double counting of emissions and to confirm that the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory includes all emissions, a comparison and reconciliation of emission estimates from various sources is performed for each pollutant, industry sector and geographical region, as appropriate. More information on the reconciliation process is provided in section 3.4 (PDF;4.81 MB) of the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory Report.

Temporal coverage

Historical data are provided at the national level for the period from 1990 to 2021. For the regional indicators (provincial/territorial), emissions are presented for 1990 and 2021. Facility level emissions information are available from 2011 to 2021.

Air pollutant emissions by source classification

For the purpose of reporting the indicators, calculated emissions data from the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory and Black Carbon Emissions Inventory are grouped into the following 13 sources:

  1. agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer)
  2. building heating and energy generation
  3. dust and fires
  4. electric utilities
  5. home firewood burning
  6. incineration and waste
  7. manufacturing
  8. miscellaneous
  9. off-road vehicles and mobile equipment
  10. oil and gas industry
  11. ore and mineral industries
  12. paints and solvents
  13. transportation (road, rail, air and marine)

Table 2 shows the allocation of air pollutant emission sources reported in the indicators compared with the sources and sectors reported by the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

Table 2. Alignment of sources reported in the indicators with the sources and sectors from the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory/Black Carbon Emissions Inventory
Sources in the indicators Sources and sectors in the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory and Black Carbon Emissions Inventory
Agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) Agriculture: Animal production
Agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) Agriculture: Crop production
Agriculture (livestock, crop production and fertilizer) Agriculture: Fuel use
Building heating and energy generation Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Commercial and institutional fuel combustion
Building heating and energy generation Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Construction fuel combustion
Building heating and energy generation Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Residential fuel combustion
Dust and fires Dust: Coal transportation
Dust and fires Dust: Construction operations
Dust and fires Dust: Mine tailings
Dust and fires Dust: Paved roads
Dust and fires Dust: Unpaved roads
Dust and fires Fires: Prescribed burning
Dust and fires Fires: Structural fires
Electric utilities Electric power generation (utilities): Coal
Electric utilities Electric power generation (utilities): Diesel
Electric utilities Electric power generation (utilities): Natural gas
Electric utilities Electric power generation (utilities): Landfill Gas [A]
Electric utilities Electric power generation (utilities): Other (electric power generation)
Home firewood burning Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Home firewood burning
Incineration and waste Incineration and waste: Crematoriums
Incineration and waste Incineration and waste: Waste incineration
Incineration and waste Incineration and waste: Waste treatment and disposal
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Abrasives manufacture
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Bakeries
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Biofuel production
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Chemicals industry
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Electronics
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Food preparation
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Glass manufacturing
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Grain industry
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Metal fabrication
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Plastics manufacturing
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Pulp and paper industry
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Textiles
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Vehicle manufacturing (engines, parts, assembly, painting)
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Wood products
Manufacturing Manufacturing: Other (manufacturing)
Miscellaneous Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Commercial cooking
Miscellaneous Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Human [B]
Miscellaneous Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Marine cargo handling
Miscellaneous Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Other (commercial/residential/institutional)
Miscellaneous Commercial/Residential/Institutional: Service stations
Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment Transportation and mobile equipment: Off-road diesel vehicles and equipment
Off-road vehicles and mobile equipment Transportation and mobile equipment: Off-road gasoline / liquefied petroleum gas / natural gas vehicles and equipment
Oil and gas industry Oil and gas industry: Downstream oil and gas industry
Oil and gas industry Oil and gas industry: Upstream oil and gas industry
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Aluminum industry
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Asphalt paving industry
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Cement and concrete industry
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Foundries
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Iron and steel industry
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Iron pelletizing
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Mineral products industry
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Mining and rock quarrying
Ore and mineral industries Ore and mineral industries: Non-ferrous refining and smelting industry
Paints and solvents Paints and solvents: Dry cleaning
Paints and solvents Paints and solvents: General solvent use
Paints and solvents Paints and solvents: Printing
Paints and solvents Paints and solvents: Surface coatings
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Air transportation (Landing and takeoff)
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Heavy-duty diesel vehicles
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Heavy-duty gasoline vehicles
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Heavy-duty liquefied petroleum gas / natural gas vehicles
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty diesel trucks
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty diesel vehicles
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty gasoline trucks
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty gasoline vehicles
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty liquefied petroleum gas / natural gas trucks
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty liquefied petroleum gas / natural gas vehicles
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Marine transportation
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Motorcycles
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Rail transportation
Transportation (road, rail, air and marine) Transportation and mobile equipment: Tire wear and brake lining

Note: [A] Includes electric power generation from combustion of waste materials by utilities and by industry for commercial sale and/or private use. [B] Includes human respiration, perspiration and dental amalgams.

For display purposes, smaller emitting sources are sometimes grouped together under the title Other sources in the charts of air pollutant emissions by source. The names of the sources grouped as such are listed in the notes of each chart.

Sectoral indicators

Sectoral indicators on air pollutant emissions from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, electric utilities and the oil and gas industry provide additional analysis on the largest sources of Canada's air pollutant emissions. These indicators also rely on calculated emissions data from the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory.

These indicators are provided at the national level. They identify the contribution of each sector to the national emissions of air pollutants for the year 2021. They also provide information about emissions of selected pollutants, by sector, for the period from 1990 to 2021.

Tables 3 through 5 below show the alignment of air pollutant emission sources reported in the Air pollutant emissions indicators compared with those reported by the sectoral indicators.

Table 3. Alignment of sources reported in the transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment indicator of Air pollutant emissions with the sources and sectors from the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory/Black Carbon Emissions Inventory
Air pollutant emissions from transportation, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment Sources and sectors in the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory and Black Carbon Emissions Inventory
Air, marine and rail travel Transportation and mobile equipment: Air transportation (Landing and takeoff)
Air, marine and rail travel Transportation and mobile equipment: Domestic marine navigation, fishing and military
Air, marine and rail travel Transportation and mobile equipment: Rail transportation
Large trucks and buses Transportation and mobile equipment: Heavy-duty diesel vehicles
Large trucks and buses Transportation and mobile equipment: Heavy-duty gasoline vehicles
Large trucks and buses Transportation and mobile equipment: Heavy-duty liquefied petroleum gas / natural gas vehicles
Off-road vehicles and equipment, tire wear and brake lining Transportation and mobile equipment: Off-road diesel vehicles and equipment
Off-road vehicles and equipment, tire wear and brake lining Transportation and mobile equipment: Off-road gasoline / liquefied petroleum gas / natural gas vehicles and equipment
Off-road vehicles and equipment, tire wear and brake lining Transportation and mobile equipment: Tire wear and brake lining
Passenger cars and motorcycles Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty diesel vehicles
Passenger cars and motorcycles Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty gasoline vehicles
Passenger cars and motorcycles Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty liquefied petroleum gas / natural gas vehicles
Passenger cars and motorcycles Transportation and mobile equipment: Motorcycles
Passenger light trucks Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty diesel trucks
Passenger light trucks Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty gasoline trucks
Passenger light trucks Transportation and mobile equipment: Light-duty liquefied petroleum gas / natural gas trucks
Table 4. Alignment of sources reported in the electric utilities indicator of Air pollutant emissions with the sources and sectors from the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory/Black Carbon Emissions Inventory
Air pollutant emissions from electric utilities Sources and sectors in the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory and Black Carbon Emissions Inventory
Coal Electric power generation (utilities): Coal
Diesel Electric power generation (utilities): Diesel
Natural gas Electric power generation (utilities): Natural gas
Other Electric power generation (utilities): Waste materials [A]
Other Electric power generation (utilities): Other (electric power generation)

Note: [A] Includes electric power generation from combustion of waste materials by utilities and by industry for commercial sale and/or private use.

Table 5. Alignment of sources reported in the oil and gas industry indicator of Air pollutant emissions with the sources and sectors from the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory/Black Carbon Emissions Inventory
Air pollutant emissions from the oil and gas industry Sources and sectors in the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory and Black Carbon Emissions Inventory
Downstream oil and gas Oil and gas industry: Downstream oil and gas industry
Upstream oil and gas Oil and gas industry: Upstream oil and gas industry

Recent changes

The emission estimates reported in the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory used in the indicators have undergone a number of significant recalculations. Specifically, the sector emissions for ore and mineral industries, the oil and gas industry, manufacturing, transportation and mobile equipment, agriculture, commercial/residential/institutional sources, and incineration and waste, following the implementation of improved quantification methods. For more information about these recent changes, consult Annex 3 (PDF;4.81 MB) of the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory Report.

Canada's Black Carbon Emissions Inventory has undergone a number of recalculations of emissions estimates. Specifically, methodological improvements have been made to all sources to improve the accuracy of estimates. Consult section 3.3 of Canada's Black Carbon Emissions Inventory for more information.

Caveats and limitations

The methodologies for compiling air pollutant emissions generally improve over time, and revisions are made to the Air Pollution Emissions Inventory. As a result of this, the emissions and trends reported for the indicators may be different from those previously published.

Some area source emissions were not updated for 2021 due to the unavailability of activity-level statistics at the time of compilation. In these cases, the emission estimates from the most recent year available were used.

The Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory (APEI) uses facility information from the National Pollutant Release Inventory and other sources. The version of the data published by the National Pollutant Release Inventory may not be identical to that used in the Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory at a given time because of updates to point source data from National Pollutant Release Inventory reporting. The inventory also uses different rounding protocols in its final report and total emissions reported in the indicators may be slightly different.

The Black Carbon Emissions Inventory generally use the same sources as the APEI, however, emissions from certain sectors are not yet captured, for example, fires, incineration and waste, non-ferrous refining and smelting and the chemicals industry. It is estimated that emissions from home firewood burning, off-road vehicles and mobile equipment, oil and gas and transportation represent approximately 91% of the national anthropogenic black carbon emissions.

The latest year reported (2021) coincides with the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic which had an impact on a wide range of economic sectors, especially the energy and transport sectors. The emissions change for the periods from 1990 to 2021 must be interpreted with caution as the level of incidence of the pandemic on the emissions is not discussed in detail in the indicators. 

Resources

Resources

References

Environment and Climate Change Canada (2015) Climate and Clean Air Coalition. Retrieved on March 20, 2023.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (2017) Using and interpreting data from the National Pollutant Release Inventory. Retrieved on March 20, 2023.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory Report 2023. Retrieved on March 20, 2023.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Canada's Black Carbon Inventory Report 2023. Retrieved on March 20, 2023.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) National Pollutant Release Inventory. Retrieved on March 20, 2023.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) National Pollutant Release Inventory: tools and resources. Retrieved on March 20, 2023.

Related information

Air pollution: drivers and impacts

Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory: overview

Interactive figures
Updated June 2023

These interactive figures support the Air pollutant emissions indicators. Use them to explore the latest emissions data for the 6 key air pollutants and black carbon in a dynamic and customizable format.

Select data by using the drop-down menu above each figure and clear your selections by clicking the "Reset figures" button on the right-hand side of the dashboard.  All values in the figures will automatically update based on your selections.

You can also choose to use your keyboard to navigate the figures.

Source: Environment and Climate Change Canada (2023) Air Pollutant Emissions Inventory, Canada's Black Carbon Emissions Inventory.

Download data file for key air pollutants (Excel/CSV; 11 MB)

Download data file for black carbon (Excel/CSV; 110 kB)

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