Pollution Facts [1 of 6]

There are over 18 million internal combustion vehicles in Canada.

Internal combustion engines spew thousands of tonnes of air contaminants and toxic substances into the air we breathe in Edmonton every month, taking a steep toll on our health and our pocketbooks.

Across Canada, tailpipe emissions account for over 40% of the smog-forming nitrogen oxides in our air, 38% of the carbon monoxide, 53% of the benzene, about 30% of the microscopic soot particles [particulate matter] and up to 60% of the sulphur dioxide. In addition, they contribute 20-25% of all volatile organic compounds, most of which are highly toxic, and some of which are known carcinogens. These figures vary by region and even within urban centres, but it remains that motor vehicles are the largest single source of air pollution in Canadian cities.

In high traffic areas, motor vehicles can contribute over 80% of the ambient pollution.