Bow Valley Clean Air Society volunteers host a booth at the Canmore Folk Festival

Community Feature: Bow Valley clean air society

The Bow Valley is known for its clean air - so clean that entrepreneurs have sold canned compressed air from Banff and Lake Louise to countries like India and China. But pollution and climate change pose a threat to our clean air, and that’s where Bow Valley Clean Air Society (BVCAS) steps in.

BVCAS has worked with citizens, industry, and local municipalities for over two decades to ensure the best decisions are made for air quality. Hal Retzer, Board member of BVCAS, explains that the group aims to improve both air quality and minimize regional contribution to climate change.

“A surprising fact that people might not know is that there is a huge industry footprint in this Valley in terms of air quality and greenhouse gas emissions,” Retzer says. “For example, industry emits about four times more emissions than the Town of Canmore – and I mean everyone in the town, not just the municipal operations.”

BVCAS has been monitoring industry activities as they pertain to greenhouse gas emissions and air quality for 20 years, and Retzer describes their relationship with industry as constructive. “We want industry to do better over time,” Retzer points out, describing one recent achievement where an industry operator committed to installing a new baghouse, or dust collection system, partially as a result of collaborative dialogue with BVCAS.

“A surprising fact that people might not know about air quality is that there is a huge industry footprint in the Valley...”

— Hal Retzer, BVCAS

In addition to advocating for better industry practices, the Society has also done other projects focused on citizens, such as installing PurpleAir air quality monitors across the Bow Valley. This real-time data (which can be viewed here) can be used by anyone to make better choices for themselves and their families. In recent years with high wildfire smoke, this might mean checking the monitor and avoiding exercise during times of poor air quality.

BVCAS has a small annual membership of $10 (single) and $15 (family), and are always welcoming new board and regular members who share their vision. They also hold regular meetings the first Thursday of each month in Canmore. To get involved, contact BVCAS through bowcleanair.org.

View real-time air quality data

Follow the story of a Canmore resident as they overcome hesitation to buy an electric vehicle. This video was produced for the Biosphere Institute by FieldLab Films with support from Natural Resources Canada and the Town of Canmore.

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