Asphalt fumes and odour

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Many residents near Rock Bay and downwind have reported air pollution that has a serious impact on them. It’s been going on for several weeks, much of it in the evening.

The BC Government website notes that “Air pollution occurs when the air contains gases, dust, fumes or odour in harmful amounts.” Residents are certainly reporting “fumes or odour in harmful amounts.”

Media have reported that the pollution appears to be coming from an industrial plant: Island Asphalt. Island Asphalt’s CEO said that “the company is filling large paving work orders for major projects such as the Keating highway overpass.”

I’ve been asked which level of government is responsible, and I want to point out that the responsible party is actually the corporation that owns the industrial operation releasing the air pollution.
Governments do of course have a role to play in setting standards for pollution and working to achieve compliance by polluters. All levels of government can play a role in having a cleaner environment. In the case of air pollution from industry and business activities, it’s generally on the provincial government, as the provincial Ministry of Environment website notes:
“In general, the provinces are responsible for controlling pollution from industry and business activities. B.C.’s Environmental Management Act and the Waste Discharge Regulation are the principal pieces of legislation for air quality and other environmental issues in British Columbia”
The City has been engaging both Island Asphalt and the Provincial Government. Here is Mayor Alto’s statement:

“On behalf of Council I want assure the public that we hear and acknowledge your concerns regarding the noxious fumes reported in the city, and we are taking action.

Staff are in conversation with Island Asphalt and the Province to address residents’ concerns.

The City is exploring all options and tools available to it to respond to the reported odors.

We encourage residents to report air quality pollution, to the BC Ministry of Environment and Parks at their 24-hour phone line: 1-877-952-7277.”

This situation will be evolving over coming days and weeks. I may provide updates here, but better sources for updates would include local media and the City’s News page.