Edmonton (Alta.) - 2001-2004 - Report on environmental performance, 2002 (2002-10)

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Q010 0303 2002 Ac. VT21019, L7c1 City of Edmonton, Office of the Environment 2ND REPORT ON ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE

2nd REPORT ON ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE CITY OF EDMONTON

Office of the Environment October 2002

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Executive Summary The 2nd Report on Environmental Performance provides City Council with an accounting of the implementation of the Edmonton's Environmental Strategic Plan. It summarizes the City's environmental activities and provides highlights of City actions to achieve its Environmental Mission and Vision. By being better informed about the City's approach to environmental issues, Edmontonians can assist the City in making choices on future environmental initiatives.

In 1991 City Council adopted the following environmental mission statement, reaffirmed by Council in 1999.

The City of Edmonton is committed to conscientious and responsible environmental management, practices and stewardship in all aspects of its corporate activities.

Plan Edmonton, Edmonton's Municipal Development Plan, establishes the corporate framework for development of the Environmental Strategic Plan, passed by City Council in 1999. The Environmental Strategic Plan Policy Document defines overall strategic direction for the City and presents the City's Environmental Vision.

Environment Is Our Foundation Edmontonians sustain and enhance their environment for present and future citizens, in harmony with the global community.

Edmonton's approach to environmental management integrates the environmental mission statement and principles into City operations, ensures that policies, procedures and practices address environmental regulations and issues, and provides direction for incorporating and coordinating environmental functions in departmental operations.

Environmental Topics Nineteen environmental topics were identified in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

Environmental areas are linked and actions may affect more than one topic area (Table 1).

The following sections present highlights from the main report, which follows.

2.1 Climate Change Objective:

To reduce Edmonton's contribution to climate change and support government commitments.

Atmospheric greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations are considered a major influence on global warming and climate change. Since 1995 Edmonton has had a commitment to the national Voluntary Challenge and Registry. The City also is a founding member of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities' (FCM) Partners for Climate Protection Program.

In 1999 Edmonton developed a plan to reduce GHG emissions from City operations by 16% from 1990 levels by 2010. Since then stakeholders have developed a community-wide approach to reducing emissions within Edmonton. The plan, Edmonton's Community-wide Greenhouse Gas October 2002

2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Emissions Reduction and Energy Plan — Strategy Document, was endorsed by City Council late in 2001. It will form the basis for community-based solutions to reducing GHG. 2.2 Natural Heritage Objective:

To minimize the loss of natural heritage, specifically biodiversity and natural areas.

The value of urban natural features is becoming more widely recognized. The city has a voluntary policy (Policy C467) for the Conservation of Natural Sites on Edmonton's Table Lands and the North Saskatchewan River Valley Bylaw that controls development and preserves the river valley and ravines in a natural state. The report, Conserving Edmonton's Natural Areas, prepared by a partnership of Community Services and the Alberta Environmental Network was presented to City Council in 2001. Council approved 21 of the report's 24 recommendations, some with modifications, and hired a Conservation Coordinator to lead implementation of Policy C467. Community Services Department's Integrated Service Strategy created a structure for a comprehensive, integrated plan for the river valley, natural areas, and open spaces.

2.3 Sustainable Urban Form Objective:

To provide a balanced approach to urban development and renewal while conserving resources for future generations.

Striking a balance between intensification of land use and community concerns is an ongoing challenge. In March 2001, the Planning and Development Department began development of an Edmonton Urban Land Intensification Strategy. The publication of Edmonton's Intensification Audit concluded Phase One of the project. Phase Two, now underway, will involve consultation with the community with the objective of identifying choices about growth and re-investment, and developing a physical vision for Edmonton.

City policies and procedures consider infrastructure costs and capacities, urban design, compatibility of uses, transportation, access to parks, natural areas, pipelines, utility corridors and conserving resources in making planning recommendations to Council. The Transportation and Streets Department ensures that new development promotes good access to transit service and includes effective pedestrian and cyclist access to local amenities.

2.4 Agricultural Lands Objective:

To avoid premature loss of agricultural lands.

As built-up areas of Edmonton expand, agricultural land is converted to urban uses. Premature development of agricultural lands could lead to fragmented urban land use patterns, inefficient use of scarce infrastructure resources, and community conflict In 1996 the City reconfirmed its 1990 policy to preserve agricultural land until needed for urban development.

The Planning and Development Department reviews rezoning and plan applications for conformity with Plan Edmonton's policies. Between 1997 and 2000, there were no applications for major plans or plan amendments in the areas designated as "Agriculture Areas" and no redistricting applications for non-agricultural uses were approved by City Council. In 1994, farmland area totaled 10200 hectares; 113.6 hectares were subdivided out of the agricultural area between 1997 and 2000. Between 1997 and 2000, 113 subdivision lots were registered — 80 in II

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

one 26 hectare subdivision — and 68 development permits for single detached dwellings were applied for in the agricultural areas.

2.5 Waste Management Objective:

Reduce environmental impacts of waste generation and disposal.

Edmonton is the largest Canadian urban centre to achieve 50% diversion of waste from landfill by the year 2000. Key components of the Waste Management Centre are in place, including the Materials Recovery Facility (recycling plant) and the Compost Facility. Between 1998 and 2000, the amount of residential waste landfilled decreased by 30%.

With the City-controlled residential waste stream managed effectively, efforts will focus on electronics waste, construction and demolition waste, and evaluation of innovative uses for materials currently classified as "residual" after processing in the recycling and composting facilities. A new initiative began in 2002 to provide blue-bin collection of recyclables at multifamily complexes.

2.6 Energy Management Objective:

To conserve non-renewable energy resources.

Deregulation and supply constraints have made energy management a high profile topic and the City's efforts in energy management have received increased attention. Edmonton's Office of Energy Management (OEM) was established in October 2000 and, in the Canadian municipal context, is an advanced approach to integrated energy management.

In 1994, the City initiated a $1 million energy management revolving fund (EMRF) to allow testing of energy-saving technologies in buildings. More than 30 partial-building and pilot projects were implemented, affecting more than 50 facilities. In 1999, the fund was increased to a borrowing capacity of $5 million with a new focus on full-building retrofits. By early 2002, more than 30 full-building retrofits were underway, with over $3.5 million committed and an additional $2 million in probable projects initiated.

In 2001, Edmonton launched the Fuel Sense Program. Drivers trained through the program typically achieve fuel savings of 15%. Fuel consumption by the municipal fleet in 2001 was 205,000 litres less compared to the expected consumption before the program was implemented.

3.1 Drinking Water Objective:

To ensure a continuing safe and abundant supply of potable water

The City's drinking water meets all current Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines and consistently surpasses them as well as the requirements mandated by Alberta Environment.

Drinking water requirements may become more stringent for Giardia, Cryptosporidium, viruses, bacteria, and disinfection byproducts.

EPCOR Water Services monitors trends in water quality and is prepared to meet changes required by new guidelines. EPCOR is developing plans to address discharges of chloramines, which were declared "toxic" under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA).

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Overall performance of the water utility is measured by several indices including a Water Quality Index. Based on over 4,000 tests per month in the plants' treated water, the Water Quality Index improved from 99.0% in 1998 to 99.6% in 2002.

3.2 Surface Water Objective:

To ensure the quality of surface water is suitable for a diversity of compatible uses and that its ecological value is maintained.

Edmonton meets and exceeds requirements in its approvals to operate by wide margins. City bylaws and enforcement efforts control industrial and commercial discharges to its sewer system.

In the last few years, Alberta Environment has rated water quality in the North Saskatchewan River upstream of Edmonton as "good" and downstream as "fair" based on the Alberta Surface Water Quality Index. A risk assessment study is underway as part of the City's River Water Quality Task Force Report (1997). In addition, the on-going Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP) collects water quality data from sewer outfalls, stormwater lakes, creeks, and the river.

Other water quality studies are underway including studies on ammonia reduction feasibility and improvements to water quality in stormwater ponds and lakes.

Improvements to surface water quality include upgrades to the Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant (GBWWTP). The Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) process is reducing nutrients by more than 60%. Ultraviolet disinfection has dramatically reduced levels of bacteria discharged to the river. Starting in 2002, GBWWTP is testing Enhanced Primary Treatment (EPT) technologies, which will permit UV disinfection of wet-weather plant bypass flows.

Expenditures on the Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control Strategy have begun with this program scheduled for completion by 2006.

Drainage Services is committed to implementing an ISO 14001 Environmental Management System with registration in December 2003.

3.3 Indoor Air Objective:

To ensure appropriate indoor air quality to avoid negative impacts on health and quality of life.

Poor indoor air quality may affect comfort, cause irritation, and affect workplace productivity and morale. Edmonton's inventory of buildings includes a wide range of building types; each must be managed individually. The City is committed to maintaining a healthy indoor environment for its employees and the public who use City facilities. The City's amended Smoking Bylaw was an important initiative in improving indoor air quality.

Asset Management and Public Works ensures that new City-owned or leased facilities are constructed to building code standards. Existing facilities are being renovated and upgraded. The Department will develop procedures for monitoring and reporting on indoor air quality in Cityowned or leased facilities and create a database for identifying and addressing potential problems.

3.4 Ambient Air Objective:

To ensure that the quality of outdoor air does not impair health and quality of life. iv

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Edmonton generally has good quality ambient air. From April 1992 to April 2002, air quality, as measured by the Index of the Quality of Air, was "good" more than 99% at one of three stations in Edmonton, and 97.5% and 96.7% at the other two. The occasional conditions of "fair" air quality are due mainly to exceedences in ground-level ozone and particulates.

Through its participation on the Clean Air Strategic Alliance's Particulate Matter (PM) and Ozone Working Group, the Vehicle Emissions Team, and the Electricity Project Team, the City ensures consideration of Edmonton's interests in ambient air issues. The City, in partnership with Alberta Environment, is developing a comprehensive plan to address ambient air quality. The City is replacing existing vehicles with newer, cleaner technology that produces fewer emissions.

In 2000, Drainage Operations responded to 71 complaints about odours from the sewer system and 90 odour complaints were received by the 'Odour Hotline'. Fifty-eight were attributed to the Gold Bar Waste Water Treatment Plant, twenty likely caused by emissions from the Edmonton Waste Management Centre or adjacent facilities, and twelve attributed to spills to the sewer system or unknown industrial activities. In 2001, the "Odour Hotline" received 193 odour complaints.

3.5 Ozone Layer Objective:

To reduce Edmonton's contribution to the depletion of the ozone layer.

Ozone in the stratosphere shields the earth from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Thinning of stratospheric ozone results in more UV rays reaching the earth's surface. Increased exposure to UV rays is associated with sunburn, skin cancer, weakening of the immune system, and ailments such as cataracts.

The City has reduced its use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in air conditioning and refrigeration systems and replaced all hand-held, halon fire extinguishers under the control and maintenance of the City. It also recycles CFCs from refrigerators and air conditioners accepted at Clover Bar Landfill and the City's two ECO Stations. The City will update its inventory of ozone depleting substances (ODS) and halon, and ensure that maintenance staff understand Alberta's OzoneDepleting Substances Regulation and the City's approach to managing ODS. 4.1 Industrial Releases Objective:

To protect the community and the physical environment from industrial releases.

Edmonton and the neighboring region is the largest chemical and petrochemical-producing center in Canada. Production in the region increased between 10% and 50% each year during the last 5 years. Industrial releases may create concern among the public and require responses from emergency services, industry and regulatory authorities.

The City's Emergency Response Depai tment (ERD) has a highly trained Dangerous Goods Response Team to deal with chemical spills. ERD annually inspects industrial facilities to monitor compliance for safe storage of hazardous chemicals. Over the past 5 years, annual inspections ranged between 13,000 and 15,000 per year. There were 385 high hazard inspections in 2001, and 310 inspections of fuel dispensers with underground storage tanks. In 2001, ERD responded to 2353 dangerous goods spills, 487 of which were serious in nature, including more than 90 anthrax-type calls. In 2001, the City reported 85 releases to Alberta Environment.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.2 Hazardous Materials Objective:

To protect the community and the environment from harmful impacts related to the storage, transportation, use and disposal of hazardous materials.

Transportation, disposal and potential unplanned releases of hazardous and biomedical wastes create public concern about effects to life, property and the environment.

The City operates a pesticide container depot at the Clover Bar Landfill and 2 ECO Stations that collected 3,680 drums of household hazardous materials in 2000. The Transportation and Streets Department and ERD's system of Dangerous Goods Routes manages the movement of hazardous materials on City streets. Emergency Response Plans reduce exposure to hazardous material and the ERD has a highly trained and well-equipped Dangerous Goods Response Team to deal with chemical emergencies. ERD is implementing a computer-based record keeping system for information related to inventories of chemicals at industrial sites.

4.3 Contaminated Lands Objective:

To protect the community and physical environment from impacts related to the contamination of land.

Migration of contaminants in the soil can have a negative impact on ground water, surface water and ambient air quality, and lead to human exposure and health and safety impacts. The City, through its development approval process, requires action for certain planning applications to make contaminated land suitable for its intended use with respect to soil and groundwater contamination. Edmonton also has a Release Reporting Policy to ensure Corporate actions are responsible and diligent.

The City reviews reports on site contamination for various departments and branches to ensure that property transfers of contaminated lands are dealt with appropriately and to prevent the City from acquiring contaminated land unawares. A City working group is developing procedures for sharing information on contaminated sites, addressing issues of confidentiality, and developing an overall approach for dealing with contaminated sites.

4.4 Pesticides Objective:

To protect the community and environment from impacts related to pesticide use.

The City has policies and procedures for the use of herbicides and insecticides on City lands to protect the public, employees and environmental health. Strict safety precautions are taken, including signage, and City employees applying pesticides are licensed pesticide applicators. The objective of the City's herbicide program is to provide effective weed control using the smallest amount of herbicide required. Over the past years, the area sprayed has remained approximately the same, even though the area of turf maintained by the City has increased almost 50%.

Three exemption programs are available to have green spaces maintained without the use of pesticides; and petitioned exemptions have increased over the past 5 years. In 2001, 46 sites were exempted under the Medical Alert Pesticide Prop-am (MAPP); 31 sites under the Herbicide Exemption Request Program (HERP); and 14 areas under the Petition Program.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.5 Noise Objective:

To reduce negative impacts of noise.

Exposure to excessive noise negatively impacts quality of life and may lead to health risks. Noise issues are addressed through the City's Urban Traffic Noise Policy (UTNP, 1983) and Noise Bylaw #7255 (1994). The policy sets out noise level standards for properties adjacent to new or upgraded transportation facilities, for new residential developments, and for residential sites adjacent to existing transportation corridors.

In 2001, the City of Edmonton had an estimated 35 km of noise "walls" constructed along major transportation corridors. The Transportation and Streets Department is updating noise measurements at key locations in the City and researching noise policies and threshold levels of other Canadian jurisdictions in the preparation of a revised UTNP for Edmonton.

4.6 Light Pollution Objective:

To alert the City to potential concerns related to light pollution.

Light pollution - excessive or unnecessary light - may occur indoors or outdoors. Indoor lighting may cause irritation and possible other negative health effects. Overly-bright outdoor lighting, such as signs and security lighting may be deemed intrusive. The few concerns raised by Edmontonians are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. The Office of the Environment maintains an awareness of concerns and will investigate developing a strategy for tracking emerging issues.

4.7 Electric and Magnetic Fields Objective:

To alert the City to potential concerns related to electric and magnetic fields.

Electric and magnetic fields (EMF) are invisible lines of forces that surround electrical devices.

Alternating current fields create weak electric currents in the bodies of people and animals.

Scientists continue to investigate links between alleged effects and exposure; however, there is no clear evidence that EMFs, at the levels normally experienced, are responsible for deleterious health effects. The Office of the Environment maintains awareness of issues in Edmonton and other jurisdictions.

4.8 Acid Rain Objective:

To alert the City to potential concerns related to acid deposition.

Acid deposition takes into account both wet and dry conditions. It results from emissions of sulphur dioxide and nitric and nitrous oxides, and their subsequent return to earth. Acid deposition, by increasing acidity in soils and water, can cause problems for aquatic life, soils and vegetation. It can damage property and affect the respiratory system, especially in the young, the old and those with weakened immune systems. Acid deposition is thought not to be a problem in Edmonton and releases of acid-forming emissions are declining. The Office of the Environment, through the Clean Air Strategic Alliance, monitors for issues relevant to the City.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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Table Of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY REPORT ON ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE

5

ENVIRONMENTAL MISSION

5

ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGIC PLAN

5

ENVIRONMENTAL VISION

7

LINKS TO PLAN EDMONTON AND THE CORPORATE PLAN

9

ENVIRONMENTAL TOPICS

10

APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

10

2.1 CLIMATE CHANGE

12

2.2 NATURAL HERITAGE

14

2.3 SUSTAINABLE URBAN FORM

16

2.4 AGRICULTURAL LANDS

18

2.5 WASTE MANAGEMENT

20

2.6 ENERGY MANAGEMENT

22

3.1 DRINKING WATER

24

3.2 SURFACE WATER

26

3.3 INDOOR AIR

28

3.4 AMBIENT AIR

30

3.5 OZONE LAYER

32

4.1 INDUSTRIAL RELEASES

34

4.2 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

36

4.3 CONTAMINATED LANDS

38

4.4 PESTICIDES

40

4.5 NOISE

42

4.6 LIGHT POLLUTION

44

4.7 ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS

46

4.8 ACID RAIN

47

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

REPORT ON ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE Environmental Mission In 1991, Edmonton's City Council adopted the following environmental mission statement, which was reaffirmed by Council in 1999.

The City of Edmonton is committed to conscientious and responsible environmental management, practices and stewardship in all aspects of its corporate activities.

We affirm: • the responsibility we share with the public, industry and other levels of government for environmental well-being; • the responsibility we have to demonstrate leadership as a municipal corporation in fostering responsible behaviour for the well-being of the environment; • the responsibility we have to include environmental matters as important criteria in our decision making process; • the responsibility we have towards development that does not impair the wellbeing of present and future generations; • the responsibility we have to ensure that environmental solutions are delivered in a practical and fiscally responsible manner.

Environmental Strategic Plan Edmonton's Environmental Strategic Plan Policy Document was approved by City Council on July 20, 1999. The Policy Document defines overall strategic direction for the City and identifies four General Environmental Strategies and nineteen Environmental Topics (Figure 1) classified in the following categories: • Enhance existing environmental performance • Continue to meet current standards • Monitor environmental situation The Environmental Strategic Plan is a framework for deriving balanced solutions to environmental issues, while acknowledging financial, legal, political and regulatory implications.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

The Environmental Strategic Plan addresses: • "Where do we want to be?" Vision, desired outcomes, principles, key result areas.

• "How do we get there?" Strategic direction, key strategies, initiatives, targets.

• "Where are we now?" Indices, indicators, trends.

• "How will we know we are on track?" Monitoring, reporting, projections.

(./...........-.--ENHANCE PERFORMANCE Climate Change Natural Heritage Sustainable Urban Form Waste Management Energy Management Surface Water Indoor Air Quality Ambient Air Contaminated Lands

CONTINUE TO MEET CURRENT STANDARDS Agricultural Lands Drinking Water Ozone Layer Industrial Releases Hazardous Materials Pesticides Noise

MONITOR ENVIRONMENTAL SITUATION Light Pollution Electric &Magnetic Fields Acid Deposition

Figure 1: Environmental Strategic Plan, Environmental Categories and Topics

The Environmental Strategic Plan is one step in a process of development and improvement in environmental areas. The plan is a dynamic document. It does not prescribe timeframes, but presents strategic direction. It recognizes that several kinds of actions are possible and that the City exerts its influence to affect change in more than one way: • Direct control of City Operations by the city administration under the direction of the City Manager and Council.

• Regulation of community activities through plans, policies, bylaws and agreements approved by City Council.

• Influencing the community through leadership, advice, and partnerships, and through other agencies.

The actions the City takes and the City's sphere of influence may change. Many environmental areas are linked (Table 1) and it is important to recognize that actions to address one topic may affect — positively or negatively — environmental objectives in other areas. With careful planning and collaboration, environmental, social and economic benefits may be enhanced. The classification of a topic - an indication of priority - also may change as our understanding of environmental stressors and receptors improves, as environmental legislation and policy change, or as initiatives and systems are implemented to improve the City's environmental performance.

For any topic, there are many initiatives underway: there also may be areas where improvement is needed.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

The 2' Report on Environmental Performance (2002) summarizes the City of Edmonton's environmental activities in the context of the strategic directions outlined in the Environmental Strategic Plan and provides a snapshot of progress on each topic. The report provides an opportunity for the reader to learn what the City is doing to achieve the City's Environmental Mission and Vision.

Environmental Vision The City of Edmonton's Environmental Vision is stated in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

ENVIRONMENT IS OUR FOUNDATION Edmontonians sustain and enhance their environment for present and future citizens, in harmony with the global community.

The following principles guide the environmental planning and activities of the City: Quality Assurance The environment is the foundation of our quality of life, health, and long-term prosperity.

Citizens of Edmonton have the right to an environment adequate for their health and well being.

Shared Responsibility Individually and collectively, Edmontonians share responsibility for the protection, conservation and enhancement of the environment for present and future generations. Edmontonians are accountable for individual and collective action and for failure to take action.

Regional Cooperation Environmental issues often span geographical and administrative boundaries. Effective management of such issues requires the joint actions of individuals, communities, businesses, and the City of Edmonton - all working in collaboration with each other and with individuals or organizations beyond our boundaries.

Continual Improvement We are committed to ensuring a consistent and high level of environmental quality through costeffective, sound environmental practices that allow for continued improvement. Monitoring of outcomes and feedback are essential to continual improvement.

Integrated Approach Concerns regarding the environment are not separate from other areas of decision-making and planning. Decisions regarding economics, infrastructure and community are all, in some way, dependent on the environment and have potential impacts on it.

Participatory Decision-making Decision-making processes must be informed, participatory, transparent, fair and timely.

Decision-makers must both seek and share relevant information in planning and managing resources, considering both short- and long-term consequences.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Climate Change

Acid Rain

F ields

Z

Electric & Magnetic

0.,

.—

Light Pollution

Pesticide s

Contaminated Lands

Hazardous Materials

1

1

Natural Heritage

Industrial Releases

0

Ozone Layer

2

< 0

Amb ient Air

'E 4

Surface Water

14 0 as

Drinking Water

Form

Agricultural Lands

Sustainable Urban

Natural Heritage

Cl imate Change

f

Table 1: Links amonE Environmental Strategic Plan Tonics * 'a

1

1

Sustainable Urban Form Agricultural Lands

1

1

1

1

Waste Management

1

Energy Management

If

1

1

If

If

I

If

If

Drinking Water Surface Water

/

Indoor Air Ambient Air

I

Ozone Layer Industrial Releases

If

If

/

Hazardous Materials

If

If

If

Contaminated Lands

If

Pesticides

/

Noise Light Pollution

/

Electric & Magnetic Fields

If

Acid Rain * The rows indicate where actions may have a signif cant impact on other topics. The columns indicate where a topic may be significantly affected by initiatives in other topic areas.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Sustainability We are committed to work toward long-term sustainability for future generations. This includes the maintenance of essential ecological processes, life support systems, and genetic diversity, together with the sustainable utilization of resources.

Proactive Planning Environmental effects should be anticipated and balanced solutions integrated early in the planning stages of a proposal, before irrevocable decisions are made. In the face of uncertainty, options should be kept open, prudent practices followed and risks minimized Life cycle implications of projects and services, from inception to decommissioning, are taken into consideration.

Links to Plan Edmonton and the Corporate Plan Plan Edmonton, Edmonton's Municipal Development Plan, is City Council's strategic policy framework. It provides direction for Edmonton's physical, economic and social development into the 21st century, sets out municipal government responsibility areas, and establishes the corporate framework for development of the Environmental Strategic Plan. Plan Edmonton, approved by City Council in 1998 (Bylaw 11777), includes, under the area of Infrastructure Development and Maintenance, the priority "Preservation and Enhancement of the Natural Environment and Open Spaces."

The priority is to: Develop an integrated environmental protection strategy in partnership with the province and neighbouring municipalities designed to improve air and river water quality, promote conservation, and ensure effective preservation and management of the City's green spaces.

The relevant strategy is: Develop an environmental strategic plan as a framework for sustaining and enhancing the physical environment, recognizing the importance of the environment to Edmonton's quality of life.

The City of Edmonton Corporate Business Plan outlines the approach to implementing Plan Edmonton and other corporate initiatives. The Business Plan includes under the responsibility area 'Infrastructure and Physical Environment', the strategy to "Initiate implementation in 2000 of an environmental strategic plan ...".

The Office of the Environment (Asset Management and Public Works) coordinates development of environmental strategies to guide City Departments. Since approval of the Environmental Strategic Plan in 1999, City Departments have submitted implementation plans to the City's Senior Management Team. The objective of the 2nd Report on Environmental Performance (2002) is to provide Edmontonians with an accounting of the implementation of the Plan. This is Edmonton's second annual report on environmental performance.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Environmental Topics Nineteen environmental topics were identified in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

The topics were grouped under â&#x20AC;˘ "conservation" topics climate change, natural heritage, sustainable urban form, agricultural lands, waste management, energy management; â&#x20AC;˘

"environmental stressors" industrial releases, hazardous materials, contaminated lands, pesticides, noise, light pollution, electric and magnetic fields and acid rain and;

â&#x20AC;˘

"environmental receptors" drinking water, surface water, indoor air, ambient air, and ozone layer.

The categories overlap; however, along with consideration of economics, social needs, conservation of resources, preservation of natural heritage, and protection of the physical environment, they form the basis for the City's approach to sustainability. Achieving the objectives of the strategic plan requires reconciliation of competing interests and exploration of innovative approaches.

The 19 topics also were classified on the basis of the action required (Figure 1). The classification, included in the "heading" for each topic on the following pages along with the strategic direction provided by the Environmental Strategic Plan, indicates the need and priority for action on the topic.

The classification for action is based on two considerations, the perceived environmental risk or need for improvement, and the strength of management systems in the City to respond to the topic and emerging issues. There is more detail on the City's approach to environmental management in the next section.

On the following pages, each environmental topic includes a background and context for the topic, followed by a discussion of potential risks. These sections are followed by a statement of the objective and key strategies as approved by City Council in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

The City's strategic initiatives to achieve the objective are listed in the following sections. The section, Performance Measures, presents information of how the City is (or will) measure its progress toward achieving the Strategic Direction of the topic. The section Key Challenges presents some issues that may affect the City's response to a topic. The challenges may include, for example, improved understanding of environmental and health risks, new technologies, new federal or provincial regulatory requirements, or changes in consumer patterns or public expectations.

Approach to Environmental Management In one way or another, all City operations contribute to or are affected by environmental change.

A well-defined environmental management system ensures that the implementation of environmental management functions within civic operations occurs in a coordinated, effective and efficient manner.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

The enactment of Alberta's Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act in 1993 necessitated a greater emphasis by municipalities on "due diligence" and environmental management.

Edmonton initiated a more formalized approach to environmental management in the early 1990s with the formation of the Office of the Environment and adoption of several environmental policy statements by City Council.

The City's approach to environmental management is intended to integrate the Environmental Mission statement and principles into City operations, ensure that policies, procedures and practices address environmental regulations and issues, and provide direction for incorporating and coordinating environmental functions in depat tmental operations.

The operating departments are responsible for ensuring that environmental legislation, Council directives, and administrative policies are incorporated in their operations and activities, and Corporate environmental initiatives are communicated and implemented in each department.

The City's Senior Management Team provides overall coordination and direction. The committee, consisting of senior managers from the City and EPCOR, oversees the environmental activities of the City. Public and community input is facilitated through an Environmental Advisory Committee reporting to the Senior Management Team. The Office of the Environment addresses environmental issues that are beyond the scope of a single department, provides a focal point for information, and keeps the City informed of environmental issues and trends that may affect Edmonton.

The information presented in this 2 ' Report on Environmental Performance is intended to give the reader a clear understanding of each environmental topic, its relative importance for action, the City's objective for management, and actions by the City to sustain and enhance the urban environment and quality of life. By being better informed about the City's current approach to environmental issues, Edmontonians can assist the City in making choices on future environmental initiatives.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

2.1 CLIMATE CHANGE CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Reduce Community Wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions

I

Since then, stakeholders have developed a community-wide, coordinated approach to reducing emissions within Edmonton's boundaries. Edmonton's Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction and Energy Plan â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Strategy Document was endorsed by City Council late in 2001. It proposes a process to bring together existing and new proposals for emissions reduction.

It will form the basis for community-based solutions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, generating opportunities to improve quality of life while providing economic opportunities.

As a signatory to the Kyoto Protocol (1997), Canada has committed, by 2008 to 2012, to reduce GHG emissions to 6% below 1990 levels. The federal government is developing an implementation strategy as part of the process to determine the impact of attaining Canada's Kyoto target.

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In 1995, Edmonton committed to the Voluntary Challenge and Registry (VCR) and is a founding member of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) Program. The program requires greenhouse gas reduction commitments from member municipalities and provides support in addressing the issue.

Delaying action may postpone the implementation of climate change solutions that could improve the community's efficient use of natural resources and provide economic growth opportunities related to implementing emerging technologies and expertise.

In 1999, City Council accepted a GHG Emissions Strategy for city operations and in 2000, endorsed a resolution urging federal, provincial and territorial governments to make climate protection a priority.

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ntroduction

Concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH3) and nitrous oxides (NO) are increasing due to manmade emissions and are considered a major influence on global warming and climate change. Major human sources of GHG emissions are the use of fossil fuels (oil, coal and natural gas) for power generation, heating, and transportation and similar uses.

Many actions to reduce emissions relate to improving the efficiency of fuel use (2.5 Energy Management).

Climate change impacts may include extreme weather events, altered precipitation patterns, increased temperatures, and ecosystem changes affecting environmental, social and economic systems.

trategic Framework

Objective: To reduce Edmonton's contribution to climate change and support government commitments.

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Key Strategies: 2.1.1 Encourage reduction of overall energy use from current sources within the community.

2.1.2 Develop strategies to deal with greenhouse gas emissions in planning future community growth.

2.1.3 Increase community-wide awareness of the importance and means to reduce GHG emissions.

2.1.4 Develop and maintain a communitywide greenhouse gas emissions inventory.

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trategic Initiatives

The City's Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan for City operations (1999) contains actions to reduce GHG emissions from City operations by 16% from 1990 levels by 2010. Emission reductions are planned for buildings and facilities, fleets, street lighting, and other processes (e.g. wastewater treatment). Many of the actions focus on improving the efficiency of energy use in City operations; the plan also contains new technologies and processes, which may further reduce emissions.

The City facilitated development of Edmonton's Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction and Energy Plan.

The plan was developed by a cross-section of community stakeholders and City representatives (the CO2RE Team) under direction by a steering committee including members from the City, EPCOR and ATCO Gas. It proposes actions to reduce GHG emissions in Edmonton up to Canada's Kyoto target and positions Edmonton for further long-term reductions.

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erformance Measures

climate change based on changes in the tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emitted from City operations. This measure takes the emissions of greenhouse gases from City operations, and expresses the amounts in terms of CO2 equivalence of their "greenhouse" effect.

Data for reporting on progress will be gathered over the coming year.

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uture Initiatives

Edmonton's Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Plan â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Strategy Document identifies options to reduce community-wide greenhouse gas emissions. The overall strategy has been endorsed by City Council, business, industry and other community stakeholders. To implement the plan requires commitment by stakeholders, who will need to incorporate applicable strategies and initiatives into their activities.

The City will prepare a progress report outlining steps taken to implement programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

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ey Challenges

As with greenhouse gas emissions at the provincial and national levels, Edmonton's emissions rose from the baseline year of 1990 to 2000 and are projected to increase under a 'business-asusual' scenario. For Canada to reach its greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets, all key sectors, including municipalities, will need to be engaged. Similarly, for Edmonton to address the climate change issue in a significant way and to reduce community-wide greenhouse gas emissions, all key sectors of the community need to be involved.

The City measures its performance on

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2.2 NATURAL HERITAGE CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Protect Natural Heritage

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ntroduction

The value of natural features in the urban landscape is becoming more widely recognized. Conversion of agricultural land to urban uses may be accompanied by loss of natural areas such as wetlands, tree stands and grasslands. As urban areas grow, land use changes may lead to deterioration of natural habitat and a decline in biodiversity.

Conservation measures may be introduced to lessen the impact of new development.

The Plan Edmonton priority related to the City's natural heritage is to: Preserve and enhance the river valley, natural areas and open space within the urban landscape; recognize these areas as critical aspects of successful planned growth of the city; and link them to the extent possible.

The city has a voluntary policy (Policy C467, Conservation of Natural Sites on Edmonton's Table Lands) for the conservation of natural sites. The North Saskatchewan Area Redevelopment Plan, Bylaw 7188, commonly called the "River Valley Bylaw", controls the type of development and preserves the natural state of the river valley and ravines.

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With continued loss of natural heritage, the quality of life for citizens of suburban areas will diminish as we move further from the river valley.

We continue to lose ecologically valuable, natural areas to urban development, including wetlands, grasslands and forest patches, and associated fauna or flora.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To minimize the loss of natural heritage, specifically biodiversity and natural areas.

Key Strategies: 2.2.1 Enhance the protection of natural areas.

2.2.2 Increase public awareness of the importance of preserving biodiversity and natural areas.

2.2.3 Implement existing conservation policies, bylaws and strategies.

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trategic Initiatives

Edmonton established a Natural Area Reserve Fund, committing $250,000 per year toward for purchases of natural areas.

Community Services acquires land for parks, environmental reserves and natural areas, creates naturalized areas on school and park lands, river valley and ravines, and along roadways, and implements the Ribbon of Green Master Plan. Community Services works with partners to program and maintain acquired lands.

Planning and Development administers the River Valley Bylaw and its review process

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to identify and mitigate environmental impacts related to development.

Planning and Development manages the land development process, and reviews natural site assessments as part of Policy C467. Community Services and Drainage Branch are also involved in the review process. The Administration works with landowners to conserve natural areas through the land development process.

City and provincial departments are working to determine Crown interests in water bodies to enhance their conservation in Edmonton.

Planning and Development drafted a Top of Bank Policy to protect the river valley and ravine system from urban development encroachments and provide public access.

Community Services' Integrated Service Strategy creates a structure for creation of a comprehensive, integrated plan for the river valley, natural areas and open spaces. The strategy may lead to changes in acquisition standards away from traditional parks to include retention of natural features.

Community Services partnered with the Alberta Environmental Network and produced a report, Conserving Edmonton's Natural Areas, which was released in March 2001. In September 2001, City Council approved 21 recommendations from the report. Funding was approved and a Conservation Coordinator hired in 2002 to lead implementation of Policy C467.

The Discovery Village/Winterbum Pond Natural Area Management Plan was approved in 2001.

The Heritage Valley Servicing Concept Design Brief includes a review and conservation of natural areas using municipal reserve credits.

Planning and Development, in collaboration with Alberta Community Development, St. Albert, and Sturgeon and Parkland counties

started work on a Big Lake Natural Area Management Plan.

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erformance Measures

In the fall of 2001, the City acquired the first natural area using the City's Natural Area Reserve fund (NVV384). The 20hectare parcel of land includes a geologically-significant, sand dune blowout. Other natural areas have been acquired through the development process using the Natural Area Reserve Fund.

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Community Services is preparing an Urban Parks Management Plan that will consider the need and demand for retention of natural areas and other demands for open space in new "park" standards.

Community Services continues to look for opportunities to use Municipal Reserve credits to conserve natural areas where ecologically appropriate and financially feasible, and where the sustainability of sites is realistic.

The Conservation Coordinator will develop a long-term program and lead activities to implement Policy C467 and the approved recommendations of the Conserving Edmonton's Natural Areas report.

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ey Challenges

It is important to conserve natural sites before the urban development process starts.

Given the financial constraints of the Corporation, it is not realistic to rely solely on city funds to conserve natural sites.

Partnerships in conservation, and the establishment of a land trust will be critical to amplify the Corporation's efforts.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

2.3 SUSTAINABLE URBAN FORM CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Plan For An Urban Form That Is Environmentally And Fiscally Sustainable In The Long Term

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ntroduction

and other non-motorized travel modes, and utilities including water and sewer).

Population growth and increased economic activity in the Edmonton Capital Region result in the development and redevelopment of land and transportation systems. Choices made about land use and transportation systems affect the natural environment in fundamental ways, such as: the rate that rural land is developed for urban uses; the expansion of infrastructure networks; and the amount of fuel burned for heating and to move people and goods from place to place. Making efficient and effective use of Edmonton's land resources, and providing an efficient transportation system that facilitates alternative travel modes help lessen the impact of urban development on the natural environment.

Key Strategies: 2.3.1 Complete a strategy for the intensification of land development with the objective of achieving more effective and efficient use of land.

2.3.2 Consider strategies for quantifying impacts and environmental costs of existing and proposed developments.

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Intensification of urban land may cause concern in the mature areas of the City because there is not widespread support by property owners within the built-up areas for intensified development or redevelopment in their communities.

Aggressive pursuit of intensification may reduce consumer choice for single-family housing in suburban areas, causing a migration to adjacent municipalities.

There could be significant costs associated with the provision of infrastructure that supports urban intensification (public transit

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trategic Framework

Objective: To provide a balanced approach to urban development and renewal while conserving resources for future generations.

trategic Initiatives

City policies and procedures address many aspects of sustainable urban form as City departments consider infrastructure costs and capacities, urban design, compatibility of uses, transportation, access to parks, natural areas, pipelines, utility corridors, and conserving resources in making planning recommendations to Council.

Planning and Development promotes contiguous development patterns and development staging to reduce the overall cost of building and maintaining infrastructure.

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Transportation and Streets actively intervenes in the design of new subdivisions to ensure they are developed in a manner that promotes good access to transit service and includes an effective pedestrian and cyclist circulation system, which provides good, direct access to local amenities.

Transportation and Streets is actively retrofitting the existing transportation system to enhance the viability of nonmotorized travel modes.

The Downtown Plan's initiative to provide more housing in the downtown area is succeeding.

Fiscal sustainability is pursued through the Debt Management Fiscal Plan, through infrastructure maintenance, and by seeking additional funding for infrastructure.

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erformance Measures

"Sustainable Urban Form" is a broad topic for which consistent performance measures have not yet been developed. One useful measure is the ratio of single-family to multi-family housing mix in new suburban areas. Another relevant measure is annual transit ridership per capita.

In 2001, the ratio of single-family to multifamily housing units in new suburban areas was 65:35. In 2001, the annual ridership per capita on Edmonton Transit was 66.9 rides per person.

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uture Initiatives

In March 2001, City Council approved terms of reference for Edmonton's Urban Land Intensification Strategy. The publication of Edmonton's Intensification Audit concluded Phase One of the project.

A key fmding was that urban land use

intensification is only one aspect of a larger community interest in making smart choices about the future of Edmonton's physical environment â&#x20AC;&#x201D; both natural and man-made.

Phase Two of the project will involve consultation with the community with the objective of identifying choices about growth and re-investment and to develop a physical vision for Edmonton.

The City has developed an Infrastructure Strategy with an overall goal to ensure that the City's Infrastructure is in a good state of repair and that rehabilitation and development programs are adequately funded on an ongoing basis and are as efficient and effective as possible. The Office of Infrastructure was created in 2000 to implement the Infrastructure Strategy.

The City has requested funding from the federal and provincial governments to fund part of the LRT. The City has requested funding from the federal and provincial governments to fund a multi-use corridor and heritage trail.

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ey Challenges

Striking a balance between a natural inclination of the development industry to intensify land use and concerns of the community residents about changes that may affect them is an ongoing challenge.

The intensification of land use within the City of Edmonton will be affected by land use activity and patterns within the Edmonton Capital Region.

Ensuring that intensification enhances Edmonton's quality of life by providing choice, affordability, access and livability while achieving municipal efficiencies will be a challenge.

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2.4 AGRICULTURAL LANDS CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue To Preserve Agricultural Lands in Balance With Other Land Uses

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ntroduction

As the City of Edmonton grows and its built-up areas expand, land is converted from agricultural to urban use. High quality agricultural land is a valuable resource, but agricultural use does not yield land values as high as the values for urban uses. Locally grown food is a component of sustainability and there may be increasing awareness of its value. Compatibility of agriculture and development at the urban fringe is an issue.

A study was completed in 1996 to examine the creation of an agricultural conservation area in northeast Edmonton. The study resulted in confirmation of the City's 1990 policy to preserve agricultural land until needed for urban development.

Key Strategies: 2.4.1 Continue to manage urban growth to protect agricultural lands until needed for urban development.

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trategic Initiatives

The Subdivision Authority restricts piecemeal expansion of urban development onto agricultural lands.

Planning and Development reviews rezoning and plan applications for conformity with Plan Edmonton's policies for contiguous development and the prevention of premature fragmentation of agricultural land.

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Premature development of agricultural lands could lead to fragmented urban land use patterns, inefficient use of scarce infrastructure resources, and community conflict.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To avoid premature loss of agricultural lands.

The City measures its performance based on changes in agricultural land in Edmonton.

Between 1997 and 2000, there were no applications for major plans or plan amendments in the areas designated as "Agriculture Areas" in the City's Municipal Development Plan.'

No redistricting applications for nonagricultural uses were approved by City Council in agricultural areas between 1997 and 2000.

Planning and Subdivision of Agricultural Land in Edmonton 1997 to 2000, Planning and Development, October 2001.

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issues that may affect them is ongoing.

The total agricultural area in 2001 was 10200 hectares. 113.6 hectares of land were subdivided out of the large agricultural area between 1997 and 2000.

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ey Challenges

Between 1997 and 2000, 113 subdivision lots were registered â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 80 of these in one 26 hectare subdivision â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and 68 development permits for single detached dwelling were applied for in the agricultural areas.

The current strategy, as stated in Plan Edmonton, is to preserve agricultural land until it is needed for urban development.

Agricultural lands cannot be easily reclaimed and must be preserved as long as possible.

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Incremental land use decisions that allow urban land uses in predominantly agricultural areas take valuable agricultural uses out of production prematurely.

uture Initiatives Monitoring of agricultural lands and

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

2.5 WASTE MANAGEMENT CLASSIFICATION

REDUCE..

REUSE it6) RECYCLE

Enhance existing environmental performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Improve Waste Management Practices

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ntroduction

Edmonton is a North American leader in sustainable urban waste management. The City is the largest Canadian urban centre to achieve the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) target of 50% diversion of waste from landfill by the year 2000. Major components of Edmonton's 1994 Waste Management Strategic Plan have been implemented. The Waste Management Branch continues to monitor developments in the industry.

Residents and businesses must be provided with access to reasonably convenient and cost-effective means of waste removal and disposal. Securing longterm landfill capacity ensures this takes place.

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trategic Framework

Objective: Reduce environmental impacts of waste generation and disposal.

Key Strategies: 2.5.1 Continue to implement the long-term Waste Management Strategic Plan.

2.5.2 Increase community awareness of the need for continuing improvement of waste management practices.

2.5.3 Continue ongoing monitoring and reporting of waste management trends.

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trategic Initiatives

Key components of the Waste Management Centre are in place, including a Materials Recovery Facility (recycling plant) and a Compost Facility. Operational efficiencies continue to be evaluated.

Recognizing that compliance with program requirements is critical to the success of waste management programs, public education and information sharing are considered priorities.

A sustainable financing model is pursued through a comprehensive program of cost evaluation, effective long-term planning, and ongoing evaluation of new technologies and best business practices.

The 30-year Waste Management Strategic Plan is a "living document" to be evaluated and updated to adopt best practices and meet the changing needs of the community.

Edmonton has leveraged its infrastructure and knowledge resources by partnering with businesses and institutions to establish the Edmonton Waste Management Centre of Excellence. The City will benefit from opportunities for operational efficiencies from applied research and development activities pursued at the Centre.

To maximize diversion from landfill, the City and its partners operating recycling and composting facilities are evaluating new and innovative uses for materials currently 20

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classified as "residual" after processing in the facilities.

will focus on other elements of the urban waste stream including electronics waste and construction and demolition (C&D) waste.

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erformance Measures

Among the performance measures tracked annually is the percentage of residential waste diverted from landfill.

Between 1998 and 2000, the amount of residential waste landfilled decreased by Performance Measure Residential waste diverted from landfill (%)

1998

1999

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over 30% due to the development of alternatives including recycling and composting. About 14% of the residential waste stream is recycled.

Multi-family dwellings are serviced by 20 community recycling depots and, beginning in March 2002, a blue-bin recycling program. In 2000, more than 27,000 tonnes of material were collected through these programs.

Another performance measure is the amount of household hazardous waste collected at the City's two Eco Stations. This is reported under 4.2 "Hazardous Materials".

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uture Initiatives

The City, through the Centre of Excellence, is pursuing grants from higher orders of government and the private sector to develop new waste management technologies and optimize existing ones.

Development of strong markets for recyclables and compost will continue.

With the City-controlled, residential waste stream managed effectively, future efforts

Implementation of initiatives identified in the Waste Management Strategic Plan continues, including optimization of collection systems with dual compartment collection vehicles. The benefits include improved cost efficiency and reduced traffic and emissions in the community.

2000 New initiatives to increase recycling rates include the 46 blue bin Multi-family Recycling Program, which began in March 2002 and will be implemented over 18 months.

The Waste Management Branch is developing a full Environmental Management System to formalize comprehensive policies and procedures for managing the environmental impacts of its operations and measuring performance.

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ey Challenges

The City's landfill will be full between 2012 and 2015. Action must begin by 2005 to ensure sufficient landfill capacity is secured before the current capacity is exhausted.

Changing demographics, in particular, an aging population staying in their homes longer, could impact on the level and type of waste services required. The needs of senior citizens and potential changes to the delivery of waste services will be assessed.

Consolidation of the waste management industry in Canada will require vigilance by the City to ensure that services are provided to all sectors of the community in a competitive manner.

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2.6 ENERGY MANAGEMENT CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Improve Energy Efficiency

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ntroduction

Recent developments in the energy utility area related to deregulation and supply constraints have made "energy management" a high profile topic compared to a few years ago. Dramatic fluctuations and a general increase in retail prices for power and natural gas have become common media topics. As a result, Edmonton's efforts in energy management received increased attention from the public and from City Council. Long-term power supply contracts protected the City's operations from the worst of the price shocks that affected Alberta in 2001.

Energy management efforts of City departments are coordinated through a Facility Energy Management Committee (FEMC). The City's Office of Energy Management (OEM) coordinates the Energy Management Revolving Fund (EMRF) and the FEMC, works with the City Law Branch on regulatory matters, and maintains a billing verification system.

The City participates in the utility regulatory process on behalf of citizens. The OEM is the primary contact point with the power, water, and gas utilities for matters related to supply, accounts, and billings. The OEM was established in October 2000 and, in the Canadian municipal context, is an advanced approach to integrated energy management.

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Energy consumption is a major aspect of the greenhouse gas emissions issue (2.1 Climate Change). High energy costs are a strong, natural driver for reductions in energy use. The City's success in obtaining long-term power supplies at favourable rates, combined with the Province's rebate programs, reduced the impact on City operations of the increases in market prices for energy in 2001.

The increased complexity in 2001 and 2002 of billings under deregulation for electricity resulted in increased errors and in lengthy delays in obtaining reliable cost and consumption information needed for operational management and for the development and evaluation of retrofit projects. If continued, these problems could eventually reduce the intensity of City efforts to reduce energy use.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To conserve non-renewable energy resources.

Key Strategies: 2.6.1 Encourage more efficient use of current energy resources.

2.6.2 Decrease the reliance on nonrenewable energy resources.

2.6.3 Increase awareness of the need to conserve traditional energy resources and utilize alternatives.

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2.6.4 Monitor and report emerging trends in technologies and opportunities for application.

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trategic Initiatives

In 1994, the City initiated a $1 million energy management revolving fund (EMRF) to allow testing of energy-saving technologies in buildings. More than 30 projects were implemented affecting more than 50 facilities. In 1999, the fund was increased to a borrowing capacity of $5 million with a new focus on full-building retrofits. By early 2002, more than 30 fullbuilding retrofits were underway, with over $3.5 million committed and $2 million in probable projects initiated.

In 2001, the OEM initiated development of new systems for verification of utility bills and tracking energy consumption.

In January 2001, Edmonton launched the Fuel Sense Program, a driver training initiative that is projected to significantly reduce fuel use from the City's fleet.

Individual drivers trained through the program typically achieve fuel savings of 15% and can achieve savings as high as 40%. Fuel consumption by the municipal fleet in 2001 was 205,000 litres less compared to the expected consumption before the program was implemented.

Federal programs such as the Commercial Buildings Incentives Program (CBIP) have become a factor in the design basis of recent City facilities, which now are expected to meet or exceed the guidelines set by the Model National Energy Code for Buildings.

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erformance Measures

The City will develop measures related to energy used and space utilization in its

facilities. The measures will help identify where efficiencies are acceptable or improvements needed, on a basis that relates to meaningful, controllable, operating performance. The measures will be developed and tested during 2002 - 2003.

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The FEMC provides the first level of technical and operational review of EMRF projects and a mid-level setting for interdepartmental exchange of energy- and utility-related information. FEMC members are mainly supervisors or technical specialists and directly involved in daily energy issues in their units. Final review is conducted by a group of Branch Managerlevel managers formed in 2002.

In the 2nd quarter of 2002 a major review of the EMRF began to evaluate possible changes to borrowing capacity, project criteria, and program resources. Targeted completion is the 3rd quarter of 2002.

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ey Challenges

Improving staff awareness of energy issues and coordination between departments.

Ensuring that technical standards are current and appropriate.

Ensuring that the Energy Management Revolving Fund continues to meet Edmonton's needs in terms of project results and that possible alternatives are monitored to identify opportunities for improvement.

Accurately tracking, verifying, and reporting utility usage and consumption in a context where confidentiality of cost and rate information is subject to legally binding constraints.

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3.1 DRINKING WATER CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Maintain a Safe and Reliable Potable Water Supply.

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ntroduction

Edmonton's drinking water supply comes from the North Saskatchewan River. It goes through full conventional, multiple-barrier, water treatment before being distributed to users in Edmonton and 40 surrounding communities.

Edmonton's drinking water meets all current Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines and consistently surpasses them as well as all the requirements in the waterworks operating approval mandated by Alberta Environment.

The federal government sets drinking and surface water quality guidelines. Alberta incorporates these as regulations and also issues approvals to water utilities to operate.

EPCOR works closely with federal and provincial government agencies on the development of new guidelines or standards for drinking water.

EPCOR regularly monitors water quality and files a formal monthly report to Alberta Environment, which is posted on EPCOR's website.

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Health Canada guidelines or Alberta Environment standards for drinking water may become more stringent for parameters such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, viruses, bacteria, and disinfection byproducts.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To ensure a continuing safe and adequate supply of potable water Key Strategies: 3.1.1 Maintain and enhance the protection of Edmonton's water source.

3.1.2 Develop and maintain partnerships to address water quality issues.

3.1.3 Maintain and increase community awareness and participation to conserve water.

3.1.4 Continue to monitor trends in the quality of potable water.

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trategic Initiatives

EPCOR participated with Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, Alberta Environment, Alberta Health and Wellness and the universities of Alberta and Calgary to determine the "Relationship between Beef Production and Waterborne Parasites (Cryptosporidium spp. And Giardia spp.) in the North Saskatchewan River Basin, Alberta, Canada." The final report was published in June 2002.

EPCOR installed an UV light disinfection system at the E.L. Smith water plant. The system adds to the disinfection capabilities for removal of microbiological contaminants.

EPCOR participates in the City's River Water Quality Task Force (see 3.1 Surface Water), which is coordinating projects for an 24

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integrated approach to river water quality improvements.

To increase community awareness of watershed pollution issues, EPCOR sponsors "River Watch" and the "River Valley Cleanup".

EPCOR Water Services monitors trends in water quality, tracks and implements appropriate developments in early warning monitoring, water treatment and analytical testing, and plans to meet any treatment changes required because of new drinking water quality guidelines.

EPCOR cooperated with Alberta Environment and the City's Drainage Services to set up a common database for river water quality (WatQ). Data will be used to determine areas of risk and appropriate action.

EPCOR is a founding member of the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance (NWSA), a group looking at ways to maintain and improve river water quality. A State of the Watershed report will be completed by 2003.

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erformance Measures

Under Edmonton's Waterworks Bylaw 12585, which came into effect July 2001, the overall performance of the water utility is measured by using indexes of critical areas including a Water Quality Index and an Environmental Index.

Water Quality Index The water quality index monitors the percentage of water sample tests that meet all regulated requirements, and, in addition, all of EPCOR's stricter internal requirements. Based on over 4,000 tests per month in the plants' treated water and the

distribution system water, the index increased from 99.0% in 1998 to 99.6% in 2002.

Environmental Index The environmental index summarises EPCOR's performance for a variety of parameters including compliance with environmental regulations, audits, training, planning, and participation in environmental action groups such as the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance and the City River Valley Water Quality Task Force. The target is 100 points for combined activities. In 2001, the index, measured 113.2, exceeding the target.

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EPCOR is developing plans for an Upstream Early Warning Monitoring Station for water quality in 2003, subject to funding constraints.

EPCOR is developing plans to reduce discharges of chloraminated water to surface waters. Environment Canada declared chloramines as "toxic" under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA).

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ey Challenges

Health Canada or Alberta Environment may set more stringent requirements for existing regulated water quality parameters or introduce guidelines for new parameters.

Environment Canada may set stringent guidelines or regulations for discharges to surface waters for existing CEPA-toxic parameters and introduce new parameters to the "toxic substances list".

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3.2 SURFACE WATER CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Improve Surface Water Quality

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ntroduction

Surface water in Edmonton includes the North Saskatchewan River (NSR), creeks, wetlands, lakes and storm water management (SWM) facilities.

Environmental Protection Act. Edmonton, like other Canadian cities, will need to meet future CEPA pollution prevention planning requirements in 2003/2004.

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trategic Framework

In 1998-99, Alberta Environment (AENV) rated the NSR upstream of Edmonton as "good", while downstream water quality was rated "fair" as measured by the Alberta Surface Water Quality Index. Water quality downstream of Edmonton, particularly with respect to bacteria and nutrients, has improved with the implementation of UVdisinfection and biological nutrient removal.

Objective: To ensure the quality of surface water is suitable for a diversity of compatible uses and its ecological value is maintained.

Alberta Environment regulates discharges to surface waters through its approval process.

Edmonton consistently exceeds its approvals requirements. In 1999, AENV recognized the Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant (GBWWTP) for achieving its lowest level of effluent total suspended solids in 44 years of operation. The Sierra Legal Defense Fund ranked Edmonton's drainage system second best among 21 Canadian cities.

Key Strategies: 3.2.1 Continue the development and implementation of environmental protection plans for discharges to surface waters 3.2.2 Develop an integrated watershed protection plan for surface water quality improvement.

3.2.3 Increase community awareness and participation in prevention of pollution of surface waters.

3.2.4 Conduct enhanced monitoring and further develop a common surface water quality database.

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The NSR is used as a drinking water source (see 3.1 Drinking Water). Emerging watershed risks such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium and health risks posed by chemicals and spills to the river may require additional monitoring and risk management.

Some compounds including ammonia have been declared "toxic" under the Canadian

trategic Initiatives

Tertiary treatment upgrades have been completed in late 2001. Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) is expected to reduce nutrients by as much as 70%. UVdisinfection began in 1997.

Technologies are currently being pilot-tested to provide Enhanced Primary Treatment (EPT) with disinfection of CSO flows.

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Membrane filtration studies are being carried out at GBWWTP for potential effluent re-use.

Edmonton supported a study in conjunction with the University of Alberta to investigate Giardia and Cgptosporidium public health risks in wastewater effluents. The final report was published in June 2002.

exceeded licence requirements in 2001.

Final effluent average concentrations in 2001 for Total Suspended Solids, CBOD, NI-13-N, TP, and fecal coliforms were 9.5 mg/L, 5.7 mg/L, 8.5 mg/L, 1.0 mg/L, and 141 C.F.U./100-mL, respectively. The current licensing requirements are 25 mg/L for TSS and Biological Oxygen Demand, and 200 C.F.U./100-mL for fecal coliforms.

The Mill Creek On-line Oil Removal Facility is to be winterized by fall 2002.

In 2001, the percentage of CSO wet weather flow treated was the same as the historical average of 56%.

Implementation of the River Water Quality Task Force Report (1997) is ongoing.

A total of 26 sanitary spills were reported to AENV in 2000.

A surface water quality database is shared

by Drainage Services, EPCOR Water Services and AENV.

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Federal Infrastructure funding is being used to construct a Wastewater Treatment Centre of Excellence for technology development.

A Land Drainage Utility has been approved.

This will allow the City to secure financial resources to better provide for capital and environmental benefits.

Drainage Services is encouraging use of BMPs to improve storm water quality. A Real Time Control (RTC) system has been installed at the first of 5 sites. The system increases storage capacity in the sewer system, reducing the amount of untreated wet-weather sewage spilling to the river.

Studies to reduce ammonia in the river and improve storm water quality have been approved by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).

Drainage Services is rehabilitating and replacing double barrel pipes.

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erformance Measures

Final effluent from the GBWWTP

Drainage Services is committed to implementing ISO 14001 by 2003.

A Stormwater Quality and Servicing Strategy is under development to update Servicing Standards and improve storm water quality. As part of the Strategy, a study of total loadings will be initiated to meet expected changes in the 2005 licensing requirements.

Toxicity testing of wastewater effluent at GBWWTP will commence in 2005.

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ey Challenges

Gaining a better understanding of the health and ecological risks posed by surface water contaminants.

Meeting federal legislation; e.g., Canadian Environmental Protection Act and Canada Fisheries Act, while taking into account the provincial approval process and jurisdiction over municipal wastewater activities.

Registering and implementing an ISO 14001 Environmental Management System by December 2003.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

3.3 INDOOR AIR CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Improve Indoor Air Quality

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ntroduction

Keeping indoor air free of contamination is a challenge for everyone. The City of Edmonton is committed to maintaining a healthy indoor environment for its employees and the public who use City facilities. The City supports features, activities and decisions that create a healthy building environment.

On average, we spend 90% of our time indoors; therefore, we need to make sure our indoor environment is of a quality that we avoid discomfort or health problems. Indoor air quality problems may occur for reasons including deficient ventilation systems, an unusually high release of a contaminant, or improper operation of a building.

Indoor air contaminants can include particulates and gases produced due to the nature of indoor space, by occupants and their activities, or brought in from outdoors.

Contaminant sources may include carpets and building materials, chemicals such as cleaning agents, smoke, micro-organisms such as moulds, vehicle exhaust and other outdoor sources (3.4 Ambient Air).

Edmonton's inventory includes a wide range of building types, each with a distinct indoor environment and ventilation system. The indoor air quality for each must be managed individually.

The management of indoor air quality has many facets and involves various industry

groups, individuals and activities. The process includes scientific research, development of laws and standards, building design and construction, building operation and building maintenance.

The Capital Health Authority and Alberta Health and Wellness investigate indoor air quality complaints and provide information.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) provides information on indoor air quality for housing.

The federal government is responsible for developing building codes, including standards for ventilation and heating, and for building materials.

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Poor indoor air quality can affect comfort, cause irritation, and affect workplace productivity and morale. In extreme cases, indoor air quality may affect personal health, especially in more sensitive individuals such as those with asthma and other respiratory diseases, and result in increased health care costs.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To ensure appropriate indoor air quality to avoid negative impacts on health and quality of life.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Key Strategies: 3.3.1 Increase the extent of prohibition of smoking in public places.

3.3.2 Provide information to increase community awareness of indoor air quality issues.

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trategic Initiatives

Asset Management and Public Works ensures that new City-owned or leased facilities are constructed to building code standards for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and building materials.

Existing facilities are being renovated and upgraded to current standards.

The City investigates and responds to indoor air quality complaints in City-owned or leased space. Where a concern relates to a non-City facility, information can be obtained from the City's web site or from other organizations such as Capital Health.

The City's amended Smoking Bylaw, which came into effect in May 2001, bans smoking in restaurants, unless the restaurant becomes an adult-only establishment. Workplaces require separate walled and ventilated rooms, if smoking is permitted.

Asset Management and Public Works is upgrading ventilation systems in arenas or using electric ice resurfacers to reduce air contamination.

Asset Management and Public Works is reviewing pool ventilation systems and upgrading them, as necessary, to current standards.

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erformance Measures

One measure of performance for this topic is number and type of complaints received regarding air quality in city owned

or leased buildings. Currently, there is no systematic tracking of this information. The City will investigate the feasibility of gathering this information.

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The Office of the Environment will use the City's web site to provide links to information on indoor air quality.

Asset Management and Public Works will develop procedures for monitoring and reporting on indoor air quality in Cityowned or leased facilities. This will create a database for identifying and addressing potential problems with indoor air quality.

Asset Management and Public Works will develop a program to ensure that Cityowned or leased facilities meet or exceed recommended ventilation rates.

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ey Challenges

Some individuals have a high sensitivity to environmental conditions. It may not be practical to modify a building environment to that required by these individuals. These situations are unique and need to be reviewed individually by specialists to resolve problems.

There is no systematic tracking of complaints about indoor air quality or monitoring of indoor air quality. The City and Capital Health are collecting data on air quality in various settings. The data may indicate where action is required.

Actions to encourage more efficient use of energy (see 2.6 Energy Management) may adversely affect indoor air quality if not undertaken properly (e.g. ventilation rates are not addressed).

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

3.4 AMBIENT AIR CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Maintain And Improve Ambient Air Quality

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ntroduction

Pollutants in the air around us (ambient air) include emissions from industrial and commercial operations, transportation, and residences. Alberta Environment operates three permanent monitoring stations in Edmonton. One measure of air quality is the Index of the Quality of the Air (IQUA), which provides a description of air quality based on concentrations of carbon monoxide, dust and smoke, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide.

From April 1992 to April 2002, air quality as measured by the Index was "good" more than 99% at one station, and 97.5% and 96.7% of the time at the other two stations.

Air quality generally has improved because of improved vehicle design and energy efficiency. The occasional conditions of "fair" air quality are due mainly to exceedences in ground-level ozone and particulates. The public sometimes expresses concern about air quality during forest fires, oil well blowouts, and temperature inversions with calm winds.

Provincial and federal governments set air quality standards and regulate emissions.

The City has little direct control over air emissions, but works with federal and provincial agencies.

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depression, which may trap pollutants in the region and allow them to accumulate to undesirable levels.

Poor air quality may lead to health risks and negative effects on quality of life. Air pollutants can cause respiratory ailments such as emphysema and asthma and result in increased health care costs and loss of workplace productivity.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To ensure that the quality of outdoor air does not impair health and quality of life.

Key Strategies: 3.4.1 Co-operate with the Federal and Provincial governments to maintain and improve air quality.

3.4.2 Develop an awareness program to reduce harmful emissions.

3.4.3 City to undertake an increased role in monitoring and reporting on air quality for the City of Edmonton.

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trategic Initiatives

Through participation on the Clean Air Strategic Alliance's (CASA) Particulate Matter (PM) and Ozone Working Group, the Vehicle Emissions Team and the Electricity Project Team, Edmonton ensures that its interests in ambient air issues are considered.

Edmonton is located in a natural The City applies the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board's (EUB) guidelines for Sour 30

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Well Licensing and Drilling for minimum separation between sour gas wells and other land uses to minimize environmental and health impacts of these operations.

The Transportation and Streets Department uses a computer model that allows the Department to determine future changes in vehicle emissions.

The City's fleet replacement program is replacing existing vehicles with newer, cleaner technology that produces fewer emissions. The City's Fuel Sense Program, initiated in January 2001, teaches City employees how to drive more fuel efficiently, thus reducing vehicle emissions.

Asset Management and Public Works is reducing odours from the sewer system and at the Gold Bar Waste Water Treatment Plant (GBWWTP). The programs are intended to reduce complaints about nuisance odours.

Alberta Environment is preparing an updated inventory of emissions within the City, which will help focus future initiatives.

Initiatives under the City's Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan include benefits to ambient air quality (2.1. Climate Change).

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erformance Measures

Two measures of progress on the topic are changes in overall emissions from the City's fleet of vehicles and the number of odour complaints received.

Numbers for the former are not yet available.

In 2000, Drainage Operations responded to 71 complaints of odours from with the sewer system. Data for 2001 are yet not compiled.

In 2000, 90 odour complaints were received by the 'Odour Hotline'. Fifty-eight were

attributed to the GBWWTP, twenty likely caused by emissions from the Edmonton Waste Management Centre (EWMC) or adjacent facilities, and twelve attributed to spills to the sewer system or unknown industrial activities. In 2001, the "Odour Hotline" received 193 odour complaints.

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The City, in partnership with Alberta Environment, is developing an implementation plan for Canada-wide standards for particulate matter and ozone, and other air contaminants.

The recommendations of CASA's Vehicle Emissions Team will lead to piloting, monitoring and evaluation of CASAapproved projects related to vehicle emissions reduction.

The CASA Electricity Project Team will recommend a new approach to managing air emissions from the province's electricity sector, which may have an impact on Edmonton air quality because of the number of power plants in the region.

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ey Challenges

A relatively few occurrences of poor air quality or exposure to relatively low levels of air pollutants over long time periods may impact human health. The IQUA may not adequately reflect these health risks.

In June 2000, the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) endorsed Canada-wide standards for particulate matter (PM25) and ozone.

Meanwhile, standards are being developed for PMioâ&#x20AC;˘

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

3.5 OZONE LAYER CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Reduce Emissions Of Ozone-Depleting Substances From City Operations

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ntroduction

Ozone is a natural and vital gas in the stratosphere, a 20 kilometre thick layer in the upper atmosphere, which contains 90% of all ozone. The amount of ozone in the stratosphere, which shields the earth from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, is decreasing. This results in more UV rays reaching the Earth's surface.

Chlorofluorcarbons (CFCs), and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), used extensively as refrigerants, and halons, used for fire suppression, are extremely stable substances. When released into the air, these ozone-depleting substances (ODS) travel upward and are broken down by the intense UV light. This produces chlorine that in turn breaks down the protective ozone layer.

Ozone-friendly replacement chemicals exist and substantial progress has been made in reducing emissions of ODS; however, further measures are warranted.

Provincial regulations require all persons servicing air conditioning or refrigeration equipment to be certified and to conduct servicing procedures in accordance with the federal Code of Practice.

Alberta's Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulation, effective September 2000, added HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons, HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) and PFCs perfluorocarbons), where used as refrigerants, as regulated substances.

Management plans must be developed by

January 1, 2002 that outline procedures for servicing fire suppression equipment and a plan and time schedule for the phase-out and replacement of halon. In addition, there is a prohibition on the recharge of car air conditioning systems with a CFC and refillable containers must be used.

Increased exposure to UV rays is associated with sunburn, skin cancer, weakening of the immune system and aliments such as cataracts. People may experience anxiety with respect to overexposure to sunlight and UV rays.

High levels of UV radiation slow plant growth and affect vegetation and crop production through decreased yields.

Aquatic life, especially algae, may be affected.

Exposure to excessive levels of UV radiation may accelerate degradation of materials such as wood, rubber and plastic.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To reduce Edmonton's contribution to the depletion of the ozone layer.

Key Strategies: 3.5.1 Continue to reduce releases of ozonedepleting substances.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

3.5.2 Continue to eliminate the inventory of ozone-depleting substances.

3.5.3 Increase awareness and training to recognize causes of ozone depletion from the stratosphere.

3.5.4 Develop a reporting system to monitor trends in use of ozone-depleting substances and their safe alternatives.

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trategic Initiatives

The City has reduced its use of CFCs in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

CFCs are collected and destroyed.

Hand-held, halon fire extinguishers under the control and maintenance of the City were switched over to CO2 or dry chemical extinguishers in 1993.

Asset Management and Public Works has contracted a service to collect CFCs from refrigerators and air conditioners accepted at Clover Bar landfill and ECO-stations before the appliances are recycled. The CFCs are recycled.

Accidental releases of ODS are reported to Alberta Environment.

Asset Management and Public Works will ensure that relevant maintenance staff understand Alberta's Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulation and the City's approach to managing ODS and have received training necessary to comply with the regulation.

The Office of the Environment will use the City's web site to provide information on the City's practices with respect to the management of ODS and to increase public awareness of ozone depletion and the need for responsible management of ODS.

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ey Challenges

The federal government's National Action Plan for the Environmental Control of Ozone-Depleting Substances (0 SD) and their Halocarbon Alternatives (1998) includes a broader range of ODS than the 1992 National Action Plan. Alberta's Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulation, effective September 1, 2000, implements the 1998 National Action Plan. Further restrictions and stricter regulations are being discussed.

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erformance Measures

The City will update and maintain its inventory of ozone depleting substances used in City operations. Over time, this inventory will decrease as ODS are removed from service and in line with increased restrictions and prohibitions on their use.

The inventory will be updated and reported on for the next report.

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uture Initiatives

The City will update its inventory of ODS and halon in use in facilities owned or leased by the City and its boards and agencies.

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4.1 INDUSTRIAL RELEASES CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue To Prevent and Mitigate Harmful Industrial Releases

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ntroduction

Edmonton and region is the largest chemical and petrochemical-producing center in Canada and the second largest in North America. Chemicals for local, regional and international markets are distributed by road, rail, and pipeline systems.

Manufacturing facilities and the distribution modes are subject to federal and provincial regulations and guidelines. Major pipelines are subject to rigorous inspection and maintenance protocols. Alberta Environment requires that planned and accidental releases are reported.

Industrial releases may require responses from emergency services, industry, and regulatory authorities. Separating heavy industry from residential areas reduces the potential impact of industrial releases. The City's Emergency Response Department (ERD) has a highly trained Dangerous Goods Response Team. Regional cooperation with major industrial companies occurs through the Strathcona Industrial Association.

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Chemical and petrochemical producers in the Edmonton area have increased production 10 to 50% per year during the last five years. During the same time, there have been staff reductions of 10 to 25% that, in some cases, have affected

response capability. There is an increased expectation by industry that municipal responders will play a greater role in industrial responses.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To protect the community and the physical environment from industrial releases.

Key Strategies 4.1.1 Maintain emergency response capabilities to industrial releases.

4.1.2 Enhance risk management approach to plan, prevent and mitigate against industrial releases.

4.1.3 Encourage increased community awareness of safety protocols developed by industry.

4.1.4 Continue to monitor industrial releases within the city boundaries.

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trategic Initiatives

Planning and Development applies the principles of separating heavy industry from other land uses to reduce the impact of potential industrial releases.

Drainage Branch, Asset Management and Public Works, monitors and, with the ERD, mitigates chemical releases that may enter storm drains leading to the river. Trained personnel and resources are ready to address river spills (3.2 Surface Water).

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

ERD's Dangerous Goods Response Team deals with chemical spills within the jurisdiction of the City. The Team and Fire/Rescue crews train annually with industrial responders to maintain skills and review procedures.

Spills Dealt with by the Emergency Response Department.

Number Significant/Serious 1995 1058 596 1996 1317 456 1997 1415 316 1998 1628 288 1999 1516 290 2000 1886 350 2001 2353 487*

ERD annually inspects * Includes 90+ Anthrax type calls. industrial facilities to monitor in 2001 and 310 inspections of fuel compliance with the Fire Code for the safe dispensers with under ground storage tanks. storage of hazardous chemicals.

The City is a member of the Strathcona Industrial Association, which monitors air quality at more than 25 locations and provides information monthly to Alberta Environment (3.4 Ambient Air).

1994

Releases Reported to Alberta Environment 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

2001

57

51

85

93

122

Major pipelines are regulated by the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board. The Planning and Development Department reviews planning and subdivision proposals using guidance from Plan Edmonton and Municipal Planning Commission guidelines, which focus on maintaining the integrity of pipelines and utility corridors.

The Edmonton Police Service enforces provincial and federal legislation regarding transportation of hazardous substances.

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erformance Measures

Among measures used by the City are: â&#x20AC;˘ The number of annual inspections of industrial facilities. â&#x20AC;˘ The number of reportable releases reported by City operations.

Over the past 5 years annual inspections of commercial and industrial facilities ranged between 13,000 to 15,000 per year. There were 385 high hazard occupancy inspections

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91

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uture Initiatives

The Zoning Bylaw contains an innovative industrial section requiring enhanced risk management as well as draft Terms of Reference for Industrial Plan preparation. This will be implemented on an area-by-area basis; however, it is still in the development stage.

ERD and other members of the Strathcona Industrial Association present information sessions on the emergency preparedness and response by industry and the City.

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ey Challenges

A hazard analysis on major industry is needed to determine the requirements for resources for manpower, training and equipment to address industrial emergencies.

A consistent regional policy for heavy industrial land use would improve risk management and facilitate emergency response to deal with industrial releases.

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76

Increases during 1996 and 1997 were due in part to implementation of the City's new policy on reporting and reporting of releases to Alberta Environment that should have been reported only at a City level. The decrease in 2000 was due to development of a Release Reporting Guideline and a Release Reporting Form, and more frequent maintenance checks on equipment.

2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.2 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue To Reduce Exposure To Hazardous Materials

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ntroduction

There has been increased public awareness about the dangers of unplanned exposure to hazardous chemicals at work, in the home, or at other venues.

The transportation, disposal and potential unplanned releases of hazardous and biomedical wastes have created public concern about effects to life, property and the environment. The exposure of children to common toxic chemicals is an emerging issue.

Federal, provincial, and municipal legislation regulates the transportation, use, and disposal of hazardous materials, including hazardous waste. Alberta Environment and Alberta Health and Wellness regulate disposal of hazardous waste, including biomedical waste, in Alberta. The City has innovative household hazardous waste recycling programs in place at two ECO Stations. A hazardous waste treatment facility is operated at Swan Hills.

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The storage, collection, and disposal of household chemicals and their associated hazards to family members, especially children, is a community concern.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To protect the community and the environment from harmful impacts related to the storage, transportation, use and disposal of hazardous materials.

Key Strategies: 4.2.1 Continue to mitigate against the release and exposure of hazardous materials in the community.

4.2.2 Re-evaluate and enhance systems and procedures for dealing with hazardous materials.

4.2.3 Increase overall awareness of the danger, proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.

4.2.4 Monitor the movement, storage and disposal of hazardous material within the City.

The Edmonton area is the largest chemical and petrochemical-producing region in Canada. Annually, hundreds of millions of tormes of hazardous materials are transported by road, rail and pipeline in the Edmonton region.

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The proper storage and disposal of hazardous chemicals at industrial facilities is a public health and environmental concern.

Asset Management and Public Works operates two ECO Stations that annually collect thousands of tonnes of unwanted

trategic Initiatives

Emergency Response Plans are legislated for industry and other users of hazardous materials that help reduce exposure to hazardous materials.

36 October 2002

2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

household hazardous materials for safe treatment, disposal or recycling (see 2.5 Waste Management).

industrial processes, safety features, and the benefit to the community.

The Emergency Response Department (ERD) has a highly trained and wellequipped Dangerous Goods Response Team to deal with chemical emergencies on the streets, at industrial facilities, and in the home and office (see 4.1 Industrial Releases).

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Transportation and Streets, and the ERD's system of Dangerous Goods Routes manages the movement of hazardous materials on Edmonton's streets.

A pesticide container depot operated

by Asset Management and Public Works at the Clover Bar Landfill enhances the drop-off system at the landfill for unwanted household hazardous materials.

Asset Management and Public Works operates a leachate extraction and treatment system at the Clover Bar Landfill to minimize potential release of liquid residues from the landfill to local ground water and surface water supplies (see 3.1 Drinking Water).

The ERD inspects industrial facilities for compliance with the Alberta Fire Code's storage requirements for hazardous materials.

As provided for by Plan Edmonton, Planning and Development applies risk management principles by providing separation distances and effective transition zones between heavy industry and other uses to minimize the risk to the public of exposure to hazardous materials (see 2.3 Sustainable Urban Form).

Many industries in Edmonton have annual open houses to increase public awareness of

erformance Measures

One measure of the City's efforts to reduce exposure to hazardous materials is the amount of household hazardous waste, including materials such as used motor oil, cleaners, pesticides, batteries and electronic equipment collected at the City's two ECO Stations.

Household Hazardous Waste Collected (drums) Collected at Edmonton's ECU Stations

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1999

2000

2,160

2,992

3,680

uture Initiatives

The Emergency Response Department is implementing a computer-based record keeping system (POSSE) for information related to inventories of chemicals at industrial sites. (see 4.3 Contaminated Lands) The City and other regional communities are pursuing the concept of regional emergency services that will contribute to the safety of living and working in the Edmonton region.

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ey Challenges

One challenge for the City is a budgetary one; to maintain the level of services, particularly those of fire, rescue and dangerous goods protection, in the face of increasing population and industrial growth.

37 October 2002

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.3 CONTAMINATED LANDS CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Reduce Land Contamination

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ntroduction

Most contaminated sites are on private property and result from operations involving underground storage of fuels and other commercial and industrial activities.

Movement of contaminants from a site can be accelerated in disturbed soil, through coarse-grained materials, and through poor operational practices. Exposure can occur through direct contact with contaminated soil and through contact with contaminants transferred to air and water.

Alberta Environment and the Capital Health Authority have legislation requiring clean up of contaminated sites. The City, through its development approval process, requires action for certain planning applications to make contaminated land suitable for its intended use. Edmonton's Release Reporting Policy helps ensure that City actions are responsible and diligent (see 4.1 Industrial Releases).

Several operational areas respond to contamination depending on whether it is on private land, City-owned land or right of ways, or is an emergency spill; however, there is no comprehensive, coordinated database of contaminated lands.

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Migration of contaminants may have a negative impact on surface and groundwater, and ambient air quality and may lead to possible human health and safety impacts. Providing service

connections to potentially contaminated sites is a concern for worker health and safety.

Contaminated soils can affect infrastructure through impacts of contaminants on pipe materials, seepage of contaminants through pipe walls, and impact on water quality.

Before certain planning approvals or property transfers are granted, contaminated land must be cleaned-up: the cost of remediation can be high.

Issues of confidentiality and freedom of information affect Edmonton's ability to share information about contaminated lands internally and externally, and to manage sites more effectively.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To protect the community and physical environment from impacts related to the contamination of land.

Key Strategies: 4.3.1 Develop a comprehensive strategy for dealing with site contamination in conjunction with Alberta Environment.

4.3.2 Improve awareness of the benefits of preventing contamination through improved industrial practices and storage of materials.

4.3.3 In conjunction with Alberta Environment, develop and maintain an information system for contaminated sites.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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trategic Initiatives

Edmonton has developed procedures for dealing with contaminated land issues on right-of-ways, in selected planning applications, and when considering the purchase and sale of property; however, there is no corporate-wide policy and some departmental policies are informal.

Planning and Development has a draft policy that provides direction to developers on the information requirements and process for dealing with potentially contaminated lands in structure plans, re-zonings, road closures, and subdivision proposals. The policy will be presented to City Council in 2002.

Petroleum Storage Tank Remediation Program to clean up selected orphaned sites for which the City has taken ownership.

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erformance Measures

Performance may be measured by the number of known or suspected contaminated sites under City Ownership. This number likely will increase as sites are added to the inventory. Over the longer-term, improved management of hazardous materials and remediation of contaminated sites should reduce this number. Collection of data is under way.

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uture Initiatives

The ERD inspects businesses for compliance with the Fire Code. If contamination presents a fire or explosion or other environmental hazard, information is passed to Alberta Environment for monitoring and enforcement.

A City working group is developing procedures for sharing information, addressing issues of confidentiality, and developing an overall approach for dealing with contaminated sites.

Asset Management and Public Works, and Transportation and Streets review reports on site contamination to ensure that property transfers of contaminated lands are dealt with appropriately; to prevent the City from acquiring contaminated land unawares; to assess impacts to right-of-ways and utility corridors, maintenance and construction and worker health and safety; and, to determine remediation requirements.

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The City received a report, Overall Summary. Generic Risk Assessment for the Protection of Infrastructure Workers, Seepage Quality, and Physical Integrity of Pipe, and will be assessing these risks.

Drainage Services has procedures in place for dealing with contaminated soil during installation of underground utilities.

The City has received funding through Alberta Municipal Affairs' Underground

ey Challenges

In an urban setting, it is not always easy to determine the origin of contamination where several potential sources exist.

Most contaminated sites are adjacent to City right-of-ways and remediation may require road reconstruction. The City may want to set a standard for acceptable contamination in right-of-ways to manage its liability as a potential contaminant pathway to third party properties.

Contaminant effects on utility infrastructures may occur at concentrations lower than current Alberta Environment guidelines.

More stringent criteria may be needed, but their development is hampered by limited scientific understanding of contaminant-soil interactions.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.4 PESTICIDES CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue To Minimize Exposure To Pesticides

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ntroduction

The use of pesticides (including herbicides and insecticides) in City operations, the agricultural sector and by the public may damage non-target species.

Edmonton has policies and procedures for pesticide use on City lands to protect the public, employees and the environment.

The federal and provincial governments enforce regulatory requirements for municipal and commercial applications.

Edmonton uses an integrated approach to pest management that supports environmentally-responsible targeted use of chemicals. Where pesticides are the only available tools, they are used in strict accordance with Health Canada's rules and are applied by trained, licensed personnel.

The use of pesticides by Community Services includes herbicides for control of noxious weeds, broadleaf weeds and broad spectrum vegetation control, and insecticides for control of mosquitoes, satin month, wasps/bees, yellowheaded spruce sawfly, spruce budworm, forest tent caterpillar, aphids, and rodent control.

Drainage Services uses Reglone A to control aquatic weed and algae growth in stormwater management ponds. Use is minimized and the herbicide is applied by licensed City employees. Drainage Services also uses the pesticide, Sanafoam Vaporooter, to control tree roots in sewers.

In 2000, 1275 litres for Reglone A and 580 litres of Sanafoam Vaporooter were applied.

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A lack of due diligence in managing pesticides and their use can lead to health risks and negative effects on quality of life.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To protect the community and environment from impacts related to pesticide use.

Key Strategies: 4.4.1 Follow approved pesticide application standards and procedures.

4.4.2 Evaluate and update pesticide application standards as required.

4.4.3 Partner in education and awareness initiatives on proper handling and application of pesticides and available alternatives to pesticide application.

4.4.4 Monitor overall trends in pesticide usage.

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trategic Initiatives

The City's weed control standards were approved in 1997 based on recommendations of the Broadleaf Weed Control Committee. Strict safety precautions, including signage at treatment sites, are taken, when applying pesticides to City property. City employees are licensed pesticide applicators.

Three programs are available to Edmontonians to have green spaces maintained without the use of pesticides.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

•

•

•

The Medical Alert Pesticide Program (MAPP) offers citizens with medical sensitivities an option of restricting all pesticide applications within 30 m. of their residential property or notification of any pesticide application within 100 m. of their residential property.

The Herbicide Exemption Request Program (HERP) offers the option of discontinuing chemical trimming along fence lines and obstacles abutting city property.

The Petition Program allows citizens to eliminate pesticide use from specific, city inventory by petition. After 66% of residents living next to or across from a site sign the petition, the City of Edmonton will not spray the area until a petition to reverse the first petition.

MAPP 37 39 32 46 46 46

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

HERP 15 18 23 24 25 31

Petitioned Sites 6 6 11 11 12 14

In March 2002, the City approved Terms of Reference for a Pesticide Advisory Committee. The Committee will advise Community Services on: • Public education on the use of pesticides.

• The City's use of pesticides.

• Plans for reduction of pesticide use in Edmonton.

A report is expected in the fall of 2002.

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erformance Measures

The objective of the City's herbicide program is to provide effective weed control using the smallest amount of herbicide required. Herbicides used were 2,4-D, Mecocrop, Dicamba, and Par III. One measure of performance is the portion of land maintained by the City that is sprayed.

The proportion has declined over the past 5 years.

Turf Hectares Sprayed vs.

Turf Hectares Maintained 4500 3707 3739 3821 3RR44071 4349 3500 2500 Ha. 1500 -

NO -500

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uture Initiatives

The City is committed to the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Plant Health Care (PHC) to encourage natural control of pests in public areas with a minimal dependence on pesticides.

The City will monitor its use of pesticides following guidelines to maintain the quality of air, land and water through enforcement of regulations and guidelines that reduce pollution and contamination.

The City will continue to explore nonchemical solutions to weeds and insects.

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ey Challenges

Health impacts of chronic exposure to pesticides are becoming better understood. There is increasing concern about pesticide use in populated areas.

To monitor pesticide use by private and residential applicators.

Recent information from the Alberta Department of Environment indicates that there is significantly more application of pesticides by City residents than by the City.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.5 NOISE CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue To Mitigate and Reduce Exposure To Excessive Noise

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ntroduction

Edmontonians often express concern about ongoing exposure to noise, particularly traffic-related noise.

Noise issues are addressed through the City's Urban Traffic Noise Policy (UTNP, 1983) and the City Noise Bylaw #7255 (1994). The UTNP defines threshold levels above which noise attenuation should be considered (currently 70 dBA, with an objective of achieving less than 65 dBA), as well as appropriate measures to mitigate or reduce exposure to excessive noise.

The City's Transportation Master Plan, approved by Council in 1999, provides direction to continue to apply the UTNP to fulfil Strategic Goal D: "Mitigate the Community Impacts of the Transportation System."

Currently, the noise attenuation program is considered annually in the Capital Budget, but continues to be unfunded until 2006. To date, noise measurements have not identified any locations in the City of Edmonton that exceed the 70 dBA noise threshold.

intensification adjacent to major transportation corridors, increasing the exposure of residents to traffic-related noise.

If consideration is not given to noise levels during the planning stages of intensification, noise mitigation may be difficult or costly to achieve.

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trategic Framework

Objective: To reduce negative impacts of noise.

Key Strategies: 4.5.1 Provide an ongoing funding commitment for construction of the noise attenuation program.

4.5.2 Increase noise monitoring to raise awareness of noise control options in the community.

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trategic Initiatives

Exposure to excessive noise negatively impacts quality of life and may lead to health risks.

The principal objective of the City of Edmonton's Urban Traffic Noise Policy (UTNP, 1983) is to reduce the amount of residential land adversely affected by traffic noise. The policy sets out noise level standards for properties adjacent to new or upgraded transportation facilities, for new residential developments, and for residential sites adjacent to existing transportation corridors. The UTNP also outlines funding responsibilities for the provision of noise attenuation to meet the defined standards.

Land use and transportation initiatives to address objectives of the topic "Sustainable Urban Form" may lead to residential

Transportation and Streets is implementing Policy D-2 of the Transportation Master Plan to "update and apply the Urban Traffic

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Noise Policy." Updating noise measurements at key locations in the City is now complete, while research into the noise policies and threshold levels of other Canadian jurisdictions is nearing completion.

The Complaints and Investigations Section of the Development and Compliance Branch (Planning and Development Department) enforces the City of Edmonton's Noise Bylaw 47255 (1994). The Development and Compliance Branch develops strategies to increase monitoring of noise and raise community awareness regarding the impacts of noise and the options available to the community to control noise.

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erformance Measures

The number of kilometres of noise attenuation constructed has been established as an appropriate measure of performance.

It is estimated that in 2001 the City of Edmonton had 35 km of noise "walls" constructed along major transportation corridors. This estimate will be reviewed

and revised as part of the review of the City's Urban Traffic Noise Policy.

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Ongoing funding for noise attenuation adjacent to existing transportation facilities will be supported in the City's Capital Budget process on the basis of an updated noise policy.

Revision of the UTNP is expected to be completed and forwarded for Council approval by the fall of 2002.

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ey Challenges

Noise attenuation measures for residential developments adjacent to existing transportation facilities are eligible for Provincial cost-sharing only in conjunction with facility enhancement (arterial roadway upgrading or rehabilitation). All capital costs associated with retrofit noise attenuation that do not meet the Provincial criteria for cost-sharing must be borne through the City tax levy.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.6 LIGHT POLLUTION CLASSIFICATION Monitor Environmental Situation

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Monitor And Assess Situation Regarding Light Pollution

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ntroduction

Light pollution is excessive or unnecessary outdoor lighting. It includes sky glow, light trespass and glare. Sky glow is the "composite illumination" of the sky from developed areas. Light trespass is the spillage of light onto another property or stray light that becomes a nuisance. Glare is direct light shining from a fixture that makes it difficult to see or causes discomfort.

When we project light into the sky or a neighbour's yard, some of the light we are paying for escapes without doing the job we want it to do. By using light more effectively, we can use less power, save money, and reduce the amount of greenhouse gases we produce.

Light pollution may come from streetlights; area lighting on car lots, sports fields, tennis courts; advertising lighting; industrial lighting including security, storage and outdoor workspace lighting; homes; and any place where excess lighting is used or lights are allowed to shine unnecessarily into the sky.

The few known concerns raised by Edmontonians are dealt with on a case-bycase basis. Most relate to security issues (usually a request for more lighting), not light pollution.

of stars not being visible from within the city. In addition to the implication of light pollution for night sky visibility, light pollution represents wasted energy. Light pollution also may affect biological life, most notably migratory birds and insects, which may be attracted to light sources from considerable distances.

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trategic Framework

Objective: None given in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

Key Strategies: None given in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

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trategic Initiatives

The City of Edmonton uses criteria set out by the Road and Transportation Association of Canada (RTAC) for street lighting.

Outdoor lighting for any development is controlled by requirements in the City's Zoning Bylaw (12800).

The Office of the Environment maintains an awareness of light pollution issues and concerns in Edmonton and other jurisdictions.

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erformance Measures

The City proposes tracking the number and types of complaints received by the City of Edmonton regarding light pollution. An information system to gather the necessary data will be investigated.

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uture Initiatives The Office of the Environment will

maintain an awareness of concerns related to light pollution and will develop a strategy for tracking concerns and emerging issues.

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ey Challenges

Opportunities to reduce light pollution and conserve energy should be considered in new and replacement street lighting and in development approvals.

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14.7 ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS CLASSIFICATION Monitor Environmental Situation

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue Monitoring And Assessment Of Information Related To Electric And Magnetic Fields

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ntroduction

Electric and magnetic fields (EMF) are invisible lines of forces that surround electrical devices. These fields are created by electrical charges and are produced during the generation, transmission, and use of electricity at sources including power lines, electrical wiring, electrical equipment, and transformers. Charges produce two kinds of fields; electric fields, which result from the strength of the charge; and magnetic fields, which result from the motion of the charge.

Alternating current (AC) fields create weak electric currents in the bodies of people and animals. Research on the biological effects of exposure to these extremely low-frequency EMFs has been underway for more than two decades; however, to date there is no clear evidence that EMFs, at the levels normally experienced, are responsible for deleterious health effects.

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Although there is no conclusive evidence from research or epidemiological studies that EMFs are a health risk in residential or occupational environments, the research holds out a possibility of a weak risk.

Key Strategies: None given in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

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trategic Initiatives

The Office of the Environment maintains an awareness of issues and concerns in Edmonton and other jurisdictions.

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erformance Measures

None determined.

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uture Initiatives

The Office of the Environment will bring emerging issues to the attention of City administrators.

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ey Challenges

Researchers now are considering the issue of exposure to electric and magnetic fields from cell phones along with exposure from electrical devices in assessing the potential impacts of exposure to EMFs.

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trategic Framework

Objective: None given in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

46 October 2002

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4.8 ACID RAIN CLASSIFICATION Monitor Environmental Situation

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Monitor And Assess Situation Regarding Acid Deposition

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ntroduction

Acid deposition (acid rain) includes both wet and dry deposition. It results from emissions of sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitric and nitrous oxides (N0x) and their return to earth. Acid deposition can result from local emissions or be due to emissions carried by winds from distant sources.

Some emissions combine with water in the air, making rain and snow more acidic; hence, "acid rain", "wet deposition" or "acidic deposition". Deposition of fine particles containing sulphur and nitrogen, or exchange of gases from air to surfaces are acid deposition known as "dry deposition".

Key Strategies: None given in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

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trategic Initiatives

The Office of the Environment, through CASA, monitors work related to emissions of acid-forming precursors for issues relevant to the City.

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erformance Measures

None determined.

Acid deposition is thought not to be a problem in Edmonton and trends for releases of acid-forming emissions are declining.

The Clean Air Strategic Alliance (CASA) and Alberta Environment continue work on acid deposition, especially in NE Alberta.

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The Office of the Environment will prepare, as needed, information updates on acid rain for inclusion on the City's web site.

Acid deposition can cause problems for aquatic life, soils and vegetation. It can damage property and affect the respiratory system, especially in the young, the old, and those with weakened immune systems.

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trategic Framework

Objective: None given in the Environmental Strategic Plan.

The Office of the Environment will conduct an assessment of issues for Edmonton related to acid deposition.

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ey Challenges

The inventory of emissions for Edmonton has not been updated since 1982.

Current work on an updated inventory and the Office of the Environment's assessment of acid rain issues may indicate concerns that require attention.

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2nd Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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