Our Mission – is to improve and protect the air quality in the Bow Valley and minimize regional contributions to climate change.
To fulfill this mission we have implemented actions and strategies as described below.
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;
- facilitating the implementation of practical solutions to enhance the air quality in the Bow Valley
The People:
BVCAS strives to implement its actions and strategies by working in a constructive manner with local citizens, local government, and local businesses.
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 promote the group as an official non-profit Society - established in July, 2002
- 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:
- 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.