SPECIATED FINE PARTICULATES AND VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS

An inventory of speciated emissions of inhalable particulates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) was prepared for the Lower Fraser Valley. The speciation of particulates included organic and inorganic trace constituents in both the fine (PM_2.5) and coarse (PM_2.5-10) fractions of inhalable particulates. A working paper reviewing the available information on visibility and human health aspects of inhalable particulates was prepared and a preliminary assessment of the most important sources of primary particulates and gaseous precursors to secondary particulates was determined. Recommended source and air quality monitoring options in support of air management strategies were developed.


EMISSIONS FROM A PULP AND PAPER PLANT

In support of an Application for a Certificate of Approval (Air), estimates of emissions of hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) to the atmosphere were made for a water treatment plant at a pulp and paper mill. The U.S. EPA FATE (WATER7) model was used to predict air emission rates from each process. The predicted emissions were then modelled to determine downwind concentrations for comparison with regulatory criteria to demonstrate compliance.


CITY OF LONDON AIR EMISSIONS STUDY

The main focus of this study was to develop an inventory of energy use and air emissions for the City of London, Ontario. Energy use statistics within the transportation, residential, commercial and institutional sectors were collected and analyzed, together with emissions data from industrial processes. Both municipal and non-municipal energy use and corresponding air emissions were calculated, in order to identify reduction strategies. A Transfer Matrix Model was developed to determine: (1) the optimized emission reductions from each planning area to meet particular air quality targets; and (2) resulting annual concentrations as a result of emission reduction targets. Approximately 40 policies were recommended to support a "three track" approach to reduce energy use and improve air quality in the city. The first two tracks cover municipal energy sources such as buildings, vehicles and equipment owned and operated by the municipal government, as well as water supply and sewage treatment services. The third track covers multi-sector, community wide energy reductions, which would require community involvement, innovative financing and integration with environmental, social and economic development objectives.
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