North American Pollution Report Shows Pollution is Decreasing in Canada

OTTAWA, May 24, 2005 - Canada’s Environment Minister, the Honourable Stéphane Dion, welcomes the release today of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) annual Taking Stock report which shows pollutant releases going down between 1998 and 2002.

In its latest report, the CEC looked at the pollutant trends between 1998 and 2002 across Canada and the United States. In the case of Canada, government efforts together with those of industry for reduction, recycling and prevention of pollution led to a 13% reduction in pollutant releases that pose risks to the environment and human health.

“ Our government takes seriously the information presented in this report as it demonstrates the importance of concerted action by all to reduce pollution and give our citizens cleaner air and water,” said Minister Dion. “The report notes that challenges to reduce pollution remain and my goal is to continue our efforts to focus on the areas of most concern.”

Lead emissions to air, which can pose a risk to the health and well-being of Canadians, are highlighted in report. Overall since 1982, lead emissions to air have decreased by 95%, brought about by eliminating lead in gasoline and measures by industry to reduce lead releases overall. However, releases from metal mining smelters still pose a concern. The Government of Canada recognizes the need for further action and last year proposed pollution prevention planning considerations that would lead to reductions of lead emissions from smelters by approximately 30 percent by 2008 and
60 percent by 2015 from the 1998 levels while targeting particulate matter and sulphur dioxide. These actions will also lead to reductions of smog and acid rain. This phased-in approach allows Canadian smelters to significantly reduce their emissions while fostering the economic benefits of the industry.

Minster Dion also notes that pollutant releases from Canada’s industrial heartland, Ontario, fell 24% between 1998 and 2002. As well, the province ranks first in North America in recycling efforts which provides an economic and environmental benefit to its industry and its citizens.

For more information, please contact:

André Lamarre
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441

To receive automatic e-mail notification of all Environment Canada news releases, media advisories, and statements, please click on this URL to subscribe: http://www.ec.gc.ca/mediaroom/newsrelease/e/subscribe_e.cfm