Homes near busy roads

Houses within 300m of heavily trafficked roads are at risk of ultrafine pollutants created by the burning of fossil fuels, including gasoline and especially diesel. These ultrafine pollutants can cause cancer, heart disease, lung diseases and low birth weight / premature birth.

Homes near industrial plants

Many industrial plants release large amounts of pollutants into the air through smokestacks which affect the health of nearby residents. Scientists have observed death rates in neighbourhoods go up and down as industrial plants open and close in the surrounding area.

Families with children

The lungs of infants and children are more sensitive to poor air quality and can be permanently damaged with too much exposure. Asthma, allergies, abnormal lung development and other chronic conditions can result.

People with asthma or allergies

Air pollutants can trigger or worsen symptoms of existing conditions like asthma and allergies. As well, the lungs of asthmatics have been shown to trap more ultrafine particles than normal lungs.

People at risk of heart disease

Ultrafine pollution has been shown to encourage plaque to build up in the arteries, which can lead to heart attacks and stroke.

Schools

Offices

Places of work and study have indoor air quality problems that have worsened in recent decades due to modern construction techniques. More tightly sealed buildings, reduced ventilation rates to save energy, synthetic building materials, and chemically formulated cleaning supplies, personal care products and pesticides have all contributed to worsening air.

Students and employees who breath clean air are more productive, miss fewer days due to sickness, and suffer fewer symptoms of colds, allergies and asthma. Air quality problems interfere with learning, productivity, comfort, and attendance, and can create negative publicity and potential liability issues.