Generally speaking, the highest concentrations of pollutants occur in June, July and August during very hot and sunny afternoons with little wind. Canada's highest measured level of benzene in ambient air is found on the island of Montreal. Although the situation appears to be improving, it remains an issue of concern. Across Canada, non-industrial fuel combustion, such as wood smoke, contributes to 77 per cent of PM levels. Since the ice storm in 1998, many Quebecers have bought wood stoves, and PM from wood burning is now a major air issue.
Acid rain continues to have a serious impact on the forests and on Quebec's maple syrup industry.
The messages are always accompanied by information about how people can better protect their health and take actions for cleaner air. At the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment meeting in June 2000, the Government of Canada and the provinces and territories set a specific target to reduce ozone levels in Canada by 2010 or sooner. As a result, a number of joint initiatives are underway between the Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec on solutions to reduce emissions of PM and ground-level ozone. A clean air information campaign will be developed for the Montreal region wood stove users. Research activities to better specific air pollutants continue.