Latest news with #CanadianCouncilofMinistersoftheEnvironment


Global News
05-07-2025
- Health
- Global News
Canada's environment ministers endorse updated air quality standards
Canada's environment ministers have endorsed stronger air quality standards for fine particulate matter, while acknowledging the struggles caused by wildfires that can blanket the country in smoke advisories. Provincial, territorial and federal environment ministers met in Yellowknife for the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment. In a joint communique released Friday, they say wildfires are one of the major contributors to air pollution, which can adversely affect the health of Canadians. They say by approving updated Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulate matter, they are 'supporting actions that will continue to improve air quality in Canada.' Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy The standards measure the amount of a given pollutant in outdoor air, and while they are not legally binding, the ministers call them a key element of managing air quality. Story continues below advertisement The council's website lists the updated standards for fine particulate at 23 micrograms per cubic metre in 24 hours by 2030, a decrease from the 2020 standards of 27 micrograms per cubic metre. The statement says the standards were developed by federal, provincial and territorial governments collaboratively with representatives from industry, environmental, Indigenous groups and health non-governmental organizations. Northwest Territories Environment Minister Jay Macdonald, who hosted the meeting, told a news conference that the new standards will help all jurisdictions better protect communities from the growing health impacts of poor air quality. He said climate change is increasing wildfire risk. 'Strong, science-based, national standards help ensure we're prepared for these challenges and support long-term health and resilience,' he said. Next year's council meeting is scheduled to take place in Alberta.


Hamilton Spectator
05-07-2025
- Health
- Hamilton Spectator
Canada's environment ministers endorse updated air quality standards
YELLOWKNIFE - Canada's environment ministers have endorsed stronger air quality standards for fine particulate matter, while acknowledging the struggles caused by wildfires that can blanket the country in smoke advisories. Provincial, territorial and federal environment ministers met in Yellowknife for the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment. In a joint communique released Friday, they say wildfires are one of the major contributors to air pollution, which can adversely affect the health of Canadians. They say by approving updated Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulate matter, they are 'supporting actions that will continue to improve air quality in Canada.' The standards measure the amount of a given pollutant in outdoor air, and while they are not legally binding, the ministers call them a key element of managing air quality. The council's website lists the updated standards for fine particulate at 23 micrograms per cubic metre in 24 hours by 2030, a decrease from the 2020 standards of 27 micrograms per cubic metre. The statement says the standards were developed by federal, provincial and territorial governments collaboratively with representatives from industry, environmental, Indigenous groups and health non-governmental organizations. Northwest Territories Environment Minister Jay Macdonald, who hosted the meeting, told a news conference that the new standards will help all jurisdictions better protect communities from the growing health impacts of poor air quality. He said climate change is increasing wildfire risk. 'Strong, science-based, national standards help ensure we're prepared for these challenges and support long-term health and resilience,' he said. Next year's council meeting is scheduled to take place in Alberta. — By Ashley Joannou in Vancouver This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 4, 2025. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .


Winnipeg Free Press
05-07-2025
- Health
- Winnipeg Free Press
Canada's environment ministers endorse updated air quality standards
YELLOWKNIFE – Canada's environment ministers have endorsed stronger air quality standards for fine particulate matter, while acknowledging the struggles caused by wildfires that can blanket the country in smoke advisories. Provincial, territorial and federal environment ministers met in Yellowknife for the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment. In a joint communique released Friday, they say wildfires are one of the major contributors to air pollution, which can adversely affect the health of Canadians. They say by approving updated Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulate matter, they are 'supporting actions that will continue to improve air quality in Canada.' The standards measure the amount of a given pollutant in outdoor air, and while they are not legally binding, the ministers call them a key element of managing air quality. The council's website lists the updated standards for fine particulate at 23 micrograms per cubic metre in 24 hours by 2030, a decrease from the 2020 standards of 27 micrograms per cubic metre. The statement says the standards were developed by federal, provincial and territorial governments collaboratively with representatives from industry, environmental, Indigenous groups and health non-governmental organizations. Northwest Territories Environment Minister Jay Macdonald, who hosted the meeting, told a news conference that the new standards will help all jurisdictions better protect communities from the growing health impacts of poor air quality. Wednesdays Columnist Jen Zoratti looks at what's next in arts, life and pop culture. He said climate change is increasing wildfire risk. 'Strong, science-based, national standards help ensure we're prepared for these challenges and support long-term health and resilience,' he said. Next year's council meeting is scheduled to take place in Alberta. — By Ashley Joannou in Vancouver This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 4, 2025.