PGAQ #65 by Vic Steblin, Dec 20, 2008

2570 Laurier Crescent, Prince George, BC, 250-564-1123

Many are gladdened when the orphaned animal is finally released back into the wild after rescue and nurture. Some are saddened when “Bambi” is then harvested as part of a hunter’s hobby. Likewise, our air can be respected and cared for by many only to have it abused by some.

Of course a single wood burner in all of Prince George would have little effect on air quality. The smoke may even bring back fond memories like the smell of breakfast at a campfire. We only notice the abuse when more start burning.

Now who decides who gets to use resources in a society? Do we need a draw like hunting just to burn wood? Or is it solely up to those who get out there and put in the hard work? Should some continue to burn wood while others stop for the sake of air quality and health?

Many burners do not even recognize the potential for a cold air inversion and will not reduce their burning during cold calm times. Of course any cold time is a good time to burn wood! What about special times like Hallowe’en or Christmas? In fairness to all, any burning could be considered abuse of privilege by the few.

The air advisories obviously indicate a problem that has escalated beyond reason. For clean air we need to stop the abuse. Ultimately, maintaining clean air needs stopping particulate, not just reducing it. There should be no smoke during both the good weather and the bad. Burning wood must stop.