What Matters...

from an Air Quality Advocate

I am naturally environmental; I compost, I recycle practically everything. But I’m not perfect and you certainly don’t have to be to take action for the environment and your community.

I have always been aware if the poor air quality and high particulate levels in Revelstoke. It is common knowledge that polluted air isn’t good for us and it is now a problem in Revelstoke. Poor air quality lowers our quality of life and affects the general health of the population. It is our right to breathe clean air.

As an outdoor person, a mother, and someone with allergies, I have a very strong desire to improve Revelstoke’s air quality. My reasons for caring about air quality are the same as those of people who want clean drinking water or organic foods or foods that have not been genetically modified. However, there are still people who need more education about our air quality situation because there are those who do not see or feel the health effects and don’t accept the reality of our current problem. It is a very Canadian trait to be laid back, to be nice and to think the best of everyone. In our overloaded daily routines, it can be very challenging to make changes towards improving air quality. I myself was too tired and burned out to do anything about environmental problems, then one day I realized that unless I do something, nothing will change.

After more than one year of part volunteering, I have created a position as Air Quality Coordinator. On June 7th, I will have a Clean Air Day booth at the Community Centre to provide information and to answer questions about how to improve air quality. I may also have a Clean Air booth a various events throughout the season. I hope to see you on June 7th!

I would like to thank everyone who gave me encouragement, advice, their time and efforts during the last seventeen months.

Julie Laverdiere
Air Quality Coordinator