The major environmental problem of airborne particles, besides its health impact on humans, is reduced visibility. Most Canadians in urban areas live where ground-level ozone may reach unacceptable levels during the summer months. Periods of high ozone can last several days and frequently occur when a stagnant air mass traps pollutants over a region. Recent studies have shown that every major Canadian urban centre has levels of ground-level ozone high enough to pose a health risk. Not only is ozone a problem for humans, it is also known to damage vegetation and cause the deterioration of some natural and synthetic materials, including paints and dyes.
Ozone is also a powerful greenhouse gas, which contributes to climate change.
Other major sources of the pollutants include the power generating sector and other industrial activities. This means that individual Canadians are responsible for generating the pollutants and, in turn, by making lifestyle choices, can make a big contribution cleaning up the problem. Many of the choices that we make every day have a direct impact on the amount of pollution that goes into our air - from the way we get to work in the morning to the way we heat and cool our homes. Since burning fuel is a primary contributor to smog formation, reducing energy use and making wise consumer decisions are important steps toward cleaner air. Learn as much as possible about alternative energy sources, and discuss your concerns about smog with other people-including your children.