Air Quality Initiatives
City of Burlington staff monitor air quality forecasts for smog advisory days. The City used to react to these days by following the Halton Public Sector Smog Response Plan, formally adopted by Council in 2000. The City was also taking a proactive role when possible, such as leasing hybrid vehicles and using biodiesel in some applications. In 2006, Council approved the more proactive Clean Air Plan, designed not just for the public sector but also for the private sector and the community.
Environment staff network monthly with other municipal workers who are members of the GTA-Clean Air Council. It is through such networking opportunities that staff learn about new municipal initiatives. This working group also helps co-ordinate the annual Smog Summits and prepares the Intergovernmental Declaration for Clean Air which is signed by most municipalities in the GTA.
Environment staff also organize the Commuter Challenge for city employees and also encourage other workplaces to participate. This annual, national challenge is held the first week of June during Environment Week.
For further information, please see below.