About Us
Our Mission – is to improve and protect the air quality in the Bow Valley and minimize regional contributions to climate change.
We do this by working with citizens, industry and municipalities to (1) make science based air quality decisions, (2) monitor and research air quality and (3) find practical solutions for improving and maintaining air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the Bow Valley.
Actions and Strategies to Fulfill the Mission:
BVCAS works towards its vision and implements its mission by:
- empowering citizens to make more informed decisions through public education;
- facilitating the monitoring and research of air quality in the Bow Valley;
- working with municipalities and encouraging industries to strive for continuous improvment.
- facilitating the implementing practical solutions to enhance the air quality in the Bow Valley
Goals and Objectives:
- To actively support and encourage the establishment of an Air Quality Management Zone for the Bow Valley.
Calgary Region Airshed Zone (CRAZ) has been established and BVCAS is a paid member.
- To empower citizens through public education opportunities such as speaking engagements, workshops, and engaging local schools; (ongoing)
- To actively advocate for local projects to protect air quality in the Bow Valley (ongoing)
BVCAS promotes:
energy efficiency sustainable living alternative energy anti-idling alternative transportation more biking and walking, less driving car-pooling fuel-efficient vehicles
Since our Society incorporated in July 2002, we have undertaken many projects:
- Purchased, installed and operated a number of fine particulate monitors in the Bow Valley. This has become an important part of what we do with new cost effective air monitoring equipment and with the increase in wildfire smoke.
- Participated in convincing the Alberta Government to phase out Alberta’s coal-fired power plants
- Advocated for and became a founding member of the Calgary Regional Airshed Zone (CRAZ).
- Conducted educational initiatives with local schools;
- Gave informational sessions on clean air;
- Facilitated Environment Canada’s “Burn it Smart Wood Stove Program” and “Lets Drive Green Program”;
- Promoted local air advocacy initiatives;
- Worked with local industries and individuals to ensure emissions are minimized;
- Promoted "modern" roundabouts to replace traffic lights in order to reduce pollution and idling;
- Sponsored numerous environmental forums with political candidates for Canmore municipal elections to raise awareness of environmental issues.
- Hosted public meetings on the subject of “Food Waste Matters- It’s Not Garbage Anymore” and continue to support more composting initiatives.
- Promoted numerous anti-idling initiatives.
- Promoted the use of bike and pedestrian modes of transport instead of cars.
