AirCare is a program worth saving

If you live on the lower mainland and own a vehicle, you’ll be familiar with the AirCare program. It’s run by BCGEU and COPE 378 members and administered by Translink. AirCare’s aim is to make sure vehicles in the region meet strict air pollution and emission standards.

AirCare’s future is uncertain. It’s slated to close on December 31, 2011. This spring, it will undergo a review. We believe AirCare is a valuable public service. It’s important for the environment and the liveability of the region. We, along with our brothers and sisters at COPE, think AirCare ought be extended and expanded, not done away with.

The environmental benefits of AirCare have been measured. The program is a success. It has helped to clean up the air on the lower mainland. It has also improved air quality in the Fraser Valley, where most of the lower mainland’s air pollution ends up.

We hope the AirCare review process will be an opportunity for us to discuss the future of the program and a chance to recommend improvements. We’ve told Translink we want to be involved in the review. We’re working with our partners to make sure our position is heard. We’re also rallying B.C.’s environmental movement for help and we’re encouraged by the support we’re receiving.

AirCare works. We need to hold onto it.