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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
VICTORIA – Government is contributing more than $300,000 to community-based air quality research that will improve people’s health. Water, Land and Air Protection Minister Joyce Murray announced the funding today during Environment Week.
“We made a New Era commitment to take a science-based approach to environmental management and this funding for community air quality supports that goal,” said Murray. “Community air quality has improved in many areas of the province in recent years and we are committed to seeing that trend continue.”
The Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection is building airshed-management partnerships with federal, regional and local governments and Washington State. Partnership funding assists communities to initiate or further develop their airshed plans. Funding for academic institutions, regional and local governments and contractors will improve understanding of local air quality, sources of concern and factors that contribute to air quality improvements.
“Airsheds cross boundaries and jurisdictions,” said Murray. “It is vital we create the partnerships that provide the scientific data we need to make smart decisions. Maintaining clean and healthy communities is a high priority and I am pleased that this funding will support building stronger partnerships.”
Each year, Environment Week provides an opportunity to look at new and innovative solutions and encourage their use to create healthier communities. Solutions based on sound science will ensure British Columbians continue to enjoy clean air, clean water and healthy, sustainable communities.
The ministry’s 2002-03 service plan allotted funding for these partnerships, which is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework.
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