Air Quality
Air quality measures how clean or polluted our air is. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) helps us understand the current air quality, its effects on our health and what we can do to protect ourselves. View our current air quality rating and the AQHI on Environment Canada’s website.
Fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, is one factor used to create the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). These tiny particles can affect health and include things like smoke, soot, liquid or solid particles in aerosol. These could also include biological materials like mould, bacteria, pollen, and pet dander. A PM2.5 rating may occur alongside air quality ratings to give more information about air quality.
What causes poor air quality?
Air quality is impacted by our activities inside and outside the city, such as oil and gas production, farming, building, driving, heating, and using certain products. Wildfires also impact air quality by releasing smoke and particles. Wind, temperature, and the shape of the land can also trap pollution and affect local air quality.
Managing air quality is important because air pollution can harm the environment and our health. Reducing pollution involves efforts and strategies from all levels of government, businesses, and organizations. Calgarians can help protect air quality by using less fuel, burning less wood, and reducing the use of products that release pollutants.
How are we measuring air quality
The Calgary Region Airshed Zone monitors and reports air quality data from continuous monitoring stations in the Calgary area. They measure common pollutants like fine particulate matter (PM2.5), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), and sulphur dioxide (SO2). This data helps determine if the air quality is within safe limits.
Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards
The federal government sets the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards to define safe limits for air pollutants based on their effects on human health and the environment.
Alberta Ambient Air Quality Objectives
The provincial government sets the Alberta Ambient Air Quality Objectives to measure the short-term impacts of a larger range of air pollutants. These objectives help check if facilities are following their issued permits, assess potential impacts of new projects and plan more air quality monitoring.
How are we managing air quality?
The City worked with members of local government, businesses and the public in the Calgary Region Airshed Zone to create an Air Quality Management Plan. This plan outlines our shared efforts to reduce pollution and protect the air.
Responding to air complaints
Industrial emissions
The provincial government regulates air emissions from industrial sources. If you have concerns, call the Energy & Environment 24-7 Response Line at 1-800-222-6514.
Nuisance smoke and dust
The City’s Community Standards Bylaw requires taking precautions to prevent smoke, dust or other airborne particles. Report concerns by calling 3-1-1.
Wood-burning firepits
The City’s Community Standards Bylaw regulates wood-burning firepits. During poor air quality and wildfire events, fire pits bans may be issued to reduce any further smoke. Report concerns by calling 3-1-1.
Connection between climate change and air quality
Climate change and air quality are linked. Climate change affects air quality in Canada, and some air pollutants contribute to climate change. Emissions related to burning fossil fuels can impact air quality in addition to emitting greenhouse gases.
Droughts and other changes in our climate increase the risk of wildfires, which are a major threat to air quality. Calgary has experienced more smoky conditions over the last 30 years. As climate change makes summers hotter, drier, and longer, with more potential for lightning storms, we can expect more smoky conditions.
Climate change can also affect indoor air quality when outdoor pollutants enter buildings or when mould grows after extreme weather events like floods.
Climate action outlined in Climate Strategy contributes to a healthy airshed. Check out our climate ready home guides to prepare your home for climate-related events like wildfire smoke.