FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2001 FIRST NATIONAL WORKSHOP ON AIR QUALITY FORECASTING

Fredericton – April 3, 2001 -- The Government of Canada is hosting the first ever National Workshop on Air Quality Forecasting this week in Fredericton, New Brunswick. This five-day workshop will bring together scientists, engineers, academia, technicians, health and industry officials from across North America to exchange scientific information and research on air quality forecasting, an important part of Environment Canada's Clean Air Strategy.

"Air quality information is vital to Canadians, especially those whose health may be at risk due to air pollution," said Environment Minister David Anderson. "Ensuring timely delivery of accurate and up-to-date data on the quality of the air is a key ingredient to this department’s goal to deliver air quality information to all Canadians."

Environment Canada, provincial, and municipal governments have been expanding and improving air quality forecasts across the country, phasing in new programs and products over the last several years. The goal is to provide national coverage within five years. Several steps have already been taken including an additional support of $52M for monitoring and reporting under the Canada US Air Quality Agreement on ozone. The data produced as a result of these initiatives will improve the inputs to the air quality models used to develop air quality forecasts.

The Workshop will allow air quality experts to explore national and, international collaboration on the science of air quality prediction. Over the past four years, Environment Canada has taken a leadership role in developing and delivering a daily smog forecast throughout the Maritime provinces. The department is currently working to develop similar programs in other parts of the country. The daily smog forecast, which began as a pilot program in Saint John, New Brunswick, is delivered by Environment Canada’s Meteorological Service, in partnership with all three Maritimes provincial governments as well as non-government health agencies.

There is a recognized link between health and air pollution. Therefore, while the Workshop focuses primarily on the science and technical aspects of delivering air quality information to citizens in a timely and useful manner, there will also be an emphasis on the need for public outreach and education.

For more information, please contact:

Réal Daigle, Manager New Brunswick Weather Centre Meteorological Service of Canada Environment Canada (506) 451-6007

Kelly Morgan Senior Communication Advisor Office of the Minister of the Environment (819) 953-2101