Edmonton (Alta.) - 2001-2004 - Report on environmental performance, 2001 (2001-05)

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Report on Envi onmental Edmonton, Office ol

Report on Environmental Performance 2001 Office of the Environment

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Edmonton. Office of the Environment REPORT ON ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE, 2001

REPORT ON ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE 2001 CITY OF EDMONTON•

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Office of the Environment May 2001

Executive Summary The Report on Environmental Poformance provides Council with an accounting of the implementation of the City's Environmental Strategic Plan. It summarizes the City's environmental activities and provides an opportunity for the reader to learn what the City is doing 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, 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.

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.

The City'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, as illustrated in Table 1 and in cross-references provided throughout the report, actions may affect more than one environmental area.

The sections below present highlights from the main report.

2.1 Climate Change Objective:

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

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

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Report on Environmental Performance • City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

In 1999 Edmonton developed a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from City operations by 16% from 1990 levels by 2010. Now the City is facilitating development of Edmonton's Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Plan that will engage key sectors of the community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

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 Community Services Department's Integrated Service Strategy created a structure for a comprehensive, integrated plan for the river valley, natural areas, and open spaces. In June 2001 the Community Services Department will bring forward a recommended implementation strategy for Policy C-467 with the intent of conserving more natural areas- earlier in the development process through a partnership approach.

2.3 Sustainable Urban Form Objective:

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

In March 2001 the Planning and Development Department began development of an Edmonton Urban Land Intensification Strategy. Making efficient and effective use of Edmonton's land resources and _ providing a transportation system that facilitates alternative travel modes help lessen the impact of urban development on the natural environment. Striking a balance between intensification of land use and community concerns will be an ongoing challenge.

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 also ensures new development promotes good access to transit service and includes effective pedestrian 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 redistricting and plan applications for conformity. with Plan Edmonton's policies for contiguous development and prevention of premature fragmentation of agricultural land. It also monitors agricultural lands and issues that may affect them.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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. The City's Waste Management Centre of Excellence.is pursuing grants to develop new waste management technologies and optimize existing ones.

With the City-controlled residential waste stream managed effectively, efforts will focus on electronics waste, construction and demolition waste, and evaluate innovative uses for materials classified as "residual" after processing in the recycling and composting facilities. New initiatives include evaluation of curbside recycling for multi-family 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 was established in October 2000 and, in the Canadian municipal context, is an advanced approach to integrated energy management The City's $5 million revolving fund provides approximately $1.5 million per year for energy retrofit projects in City buildings.

3.1 Drinking Water Objective:

To ensure a continuing safe and abundant supply of potable water

Edmonton's drinking water supply comes from the North Saskatchewan River. 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 is developing plans to address discharges of chloramines, which were declared "toxic" under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA).

EPCOR Water Services monitors trends in water quality and is prepared to meet changes required by new guidelines. EPCOR tracks and implements appropriate developments in early warning monitoring, water treatment, and analytical testing, and is looking at ways to improve disinfection for microbiological contaminants, and to reduce discharges of CEPA-toxic substances.

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 betters its approvals' requirements by wide margins. The City also has bylaws and bylaw enforcement to control industrial and commercial discharges to its sewers. In 1998-99, Alberta Environment rated the North Saskatchewan River upstream of Edmonton as "good" while downstream

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

was rated "fair" as measured by the Alberta Surface Water Quality Index. Implementation of the City's • River Water Quality Task Force Report (1997) to further improve river water quality is underway, Environment protection plans include upgrades at the Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant. Biological Nutrient Removal will be fully operational by 2005 and reduce nutrients by more than 70%. Ultraviolet disinfection began in 1997. Major expenditures on the Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control Strategy will occur between 2003 and 2016.

33 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 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 in establishments used by children.

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

Edmonton generally has good quality ambient air. The occasional conditions of "fair" air quality are due mainly to exceedances in ground-level ozone and particulates. In June 2000 the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment endorsed Canada-wide standards for particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone.

The province, in consultation with stakeholders, is developing implementation plans to ensure these standards are met.

Through its participation on the Clean Air Strategic Alliance's Particulate Matter (PM) and Ozone Working Group, and Vehicle Emissions 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 Transportation and Streets Department forecasts vehicle emissions based on technology and travel choices. The City is replacing existing vehicles with newer, cleaner technology that produces fewer emissions.

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 ozone in the stratosphere 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. iv May 2001

Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

The City 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 two ECOStations. The City will update its inventory of ozone depleting substances (ODS) and halon, and ensure that maintenance staff understand Alberta's Ozone-Depleting 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 10 - 50% per year during the last five years. Industrial releases may create concern among the public and require responses from emergency services, industry and regulatory authorities.

The City's Emergency Response Department (ERD) has a highly trained Dangerous Goods Response Team to deal with chemical spills. The City cooperates with most major industrial companies through the Strathcona Industrial Association to provide mutual aid. ERD annually inspects industrial facilities to monitor compliance for safe storage of hazardous chemicals.

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 two ECO-Stations that annually collect thousands of tonnes of household hazardous materials. .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 help 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 has a negative impact on ground water, Surface water and ambient air quality and can 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 ground water contamination. Edmonton also has a Release Reporting Policy to ensure Corporate actions are responsible and diligent.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of. Edmonton Office of the Environment

Edmonton has procedures for dealing with contaminated land issues on right-of-ways and in selected planning applications. The City also 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. Weed control standards were approved by City Council in 1997 based on recommendations by the Broadleaf Weed Control Committee. Strict safety precautions are taken, including signage, and City employees are licensed pesticide applicators. Exemptions programs are available to have green spaces maintained without the use of pesticides.

The City of Edmonton monitors the City's pesticide use. following guidelines established to maintain quality of air, land and water through the adoption and enforcement of regulations and guidelines that reduce pollution and contamination.

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.

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. Revisions to the UTNP are expected to be forwarded to Council by fall 2001.

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 develop 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.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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 deposition. 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 acidforming 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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Table Of Contents Executive Summary Environmental Mission

1

Environmental Strategic Plan

1

Environmental Vision

2

Links to Plan Edmonton and the Corporate Plan

4

Environmental Topics

5

Approach to Environmental Management

6

2.1 Climate Change

8

2.2 Natural Heritage

10

2.3 Sustainable Urban Form

12

2.4 Agricultural Lands

14

2.5 Waste Management

16

2.6 Energy Management

18

3.1 Drinking Water

20

3.2 Surface Water

22

3.3 Indoor Air

24

3.4 Ambient Air

26

3.5 Ozone Layer 4.1 Industrial Releases

30

4.2 Hazardous Materials

32

4.3 Contaminated Lands

34

4.4 Pesticides

36

4.5 Noise

38

4.6 Light Pollution

40

4.7 Electric and Magnetic Fields

41

4.8 Acid Rain

42

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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 well-being 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 strategie direction for the City and identifies 4 General Environmental Strategies and 19 Environmental Topics.

The Environmental Strategic Plan is a framework • for deriving balanced solutions to environmental issues, while acknowledging financial, legal, • political and regulatory implications.

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.

•

The environmental topics are classified in the following categories: • Enhance existing environmental performance • Continue to meet current standards to. Monitor environmental situation

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

•

"How will we know we are on track?"

Monitoring, reporting, projections.

The Environmental Strategic Plan is one step in the process of development and improvement in environmental areas. The plan is a dynamic document. It does not prescribe timefi-ames, but presents strategic direction. It recognizes that the City's ability to impact environmental matters falls into three categories: • 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.

Several kinds of actions are possible and the City exerts its influence to affect change in more than one way. Actions the City takes and the City's sphere of influence may change. As illustrated in Table 1, environmental areas are linked. It is

important to recognize that actions taken to address one topic may affect —positively or negatively — environmental objectives in another area. 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 changes, 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.

The Report on Environmental Performance 2001 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.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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ElectricF& IelM Magnetic d s

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Light Pollution

Contaminated Lands

Hazardous Materials 1

IndustrialReleases I

4

Ozone Layer

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Climate Change

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Ambient Air

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Surface Water

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Drinking Water i

Waste Management

Sustainable Urban _Fomi AgriculturalLands

Climate Change

NaturalHeritage

Table 1: Links among Environmental Strate2ic Plan To ics *

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Natural Heritage Sustainable Urban Form

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Agricultural Lands

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Waste Management

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Energy •Management

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Drinking Water

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Surface Water Indoor Air Ambient Air Ozone Layer

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Industrial Releases

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Hazardous Materials

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Pesticides

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

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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 cost-effective, 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-maldng processes must be informed, participatory, transparent, fair and timely. Decisionmakers must both seek and share relevant information in planning and managing resources, considering both short- and long-term consequences.

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 21' 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 managenient 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.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

The City of Edmonton Corporate Business Plan • development of environmental strategies to guide outlines the approach to implementing Plan City Departments. Since approval of the Edmonton and other corporate initiatives. The Environmental Strategic Plan in 1999, City Business Plan includes under the responsibility Departments have submitted implementation area 'Infrastructure and Physical Environment', the • plans to the City's Environmental Steering strategy to "Initiate implementation in 2000 of an Committee. The objective of the Report on environmental strategic plan ...".

Environmental Petformance 2001 is to provide Edmontonians with an accounting of the The Office of the Environment (Asset implementation of the Plan. This is Edmonton's Management and Public Works) coordinates • first annual report on environmental performance.

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

The topics include • "conservation" topics - climate change, natural heritage, sustainable urban form, agricultural lands, waste management, energy management; • •

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

in the "header" for each topic along with the strategic direction provided by the Environmental Strategic Plan, indicates the need and priority for action on a topic.

The classification was 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 environmental management in the next section.

In the following pages, each environmental topic• includes a background and context for the topic, followed by a discussion of potential risks - the environmental, social and economic concerns of importance. 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 section. The section, Challenges, presents trends and 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.

The 19 topics also were classified on the basis of the action required. The classification, included

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Report on Environmental Performance ' City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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 implementation of environmental management functions within civic operations occurs in a coordinated, effective and efficient manner.

that corporate environmental initiatives are communicated and implemented in each department.

Overall coordination and direction is provided by the City's Environmental Steering Committee.

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

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 departmental operations.

The information presented in this Report on.

Environmental Performance 2001 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 being taken 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, Edrnontonians can assist the City in making choices on future environmental initiatives.

The operating departments are responsible for ensuring that environmental legislation, Council directives and administrative policies are incorporated in their operations and activities and

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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

2.1 Climate Change Atmospheric greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations are increasing due to man-made emissions and are considered to be the major influence on global warming and climate change.

The major source of man-made GHG emissions is the use of fossil fuels for power generation, space heating and transportation.

Edmonton has had a commitment since 1995 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 PCP program requires greenhouse gas reduction commitments from member municipalities and provides support in addressing the issue.

As a signatory to the Kyoto Protocol (1997), the Canadian government has committed, by the period of 2008 to 2012, to a greenhouse gas reduction level of 6% below 1990 levels. The federal government, in consultation with provincial and municipal governments, is developing a National Implementation Strategy as part of the process to determine the impact of attaining Canada's Kyoto target.

Community-based solutions may offer the most suitable approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions as well as providing opportunities to improve quality of life while providing economic opportunities.

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

There is a risk of missing opportunities in climate change solutions for improving the community's efficient use of natural resources and missing economic growth opportunities in providing related emerging technologies and expertise.

Strategic Framework Objective:

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

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 community-wide greenhouse gas emissions inventory.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Strategic Initiatives Ict In 1999, the City of Edmonton developed a Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan for City operations. The plan contains actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from City operations by 16% from 1990 levels by 2010.

Emission reductions are planned from areas of buildings and facilities, fleets, street lighting, and other processes (e.g. wastewater treatment).

While many of the actions focus on improving the efficiency of energy use in City operations, the plan also contains piloting of new technologies and processes, which may further reduce emissions (see 2.6 Energy Management).

1:t The City is facilitating development of Edmonton's Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Plan. The plan is being 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.

A 'Consultation Document' for the Plan was distributed in late August 2000 to obtain feedback from a broad range of community stakeholders.

The next stage is to determine the feasibility of the potential strategies and initiatives identified, followed by development of recommendations and obtaining stakeholder approval, which is anticipated in the final stage.

Future Initiatives Edmonton's Community-Wide Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Plan will propose options to reduce community-wide greenhouse gas emissions in the Kyoto timeframe as well as position Edmonton for further reductions in the long term.

Upon completion and community acceptance of Plan, the City, business, industry and other community stakeholders will need to incorporate applicable strategies and initiatives into their activities.

•Challenges As with greenhouse gas emissions at the provincial and national levels, Edmonton's emissions of greenhouse gases rose from the baseline year of 1990 to 2000 and are projected to increase into the future under a 'business-as-usual' scenario. For Canada to reach its greenhouse gas 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 will need to be engaged.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

2.2 NATURAL HERITAGE CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Protect Natural Heritage

2.2 Natural Heritage 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 loss of natural areas (including wetlands, tree stands and grasslands), deterioration of natural habitat and a decline in biodiversity occur as urban areas grow. Conservation measures can lessen the impact of new development. The Value of natural features within neighbourhoods, the City and the region is becoming more widely recognized.

The city has a voluntary policy (Policy C467) for the conservation of natural sites on Edmonton's table lands. The North Saskatchewan River.

Valley Bylaw controls development and preserves the river valley and ravines in a natural state.

The Plan Edmonton priority related to the City's natural heritage is: Preserve and enhance the river

Risks As development radiates out from the North Saskatchewan River Valley, fewer people have access to natural areas in close proximity to their homes and the quality of life in suburban areas will be compromised if Edmonton's natural heritage is eroded.

We continue to lose identified ecologically valuable natural areas to urban development, including the loss of rare fauna or flora as well as other features.

Strategic Framework Objective:

• Key Strategies:

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

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.

Strategic Initiatives 11 Community Services acquires land for parks, environmental reserves and natural areas, creates naturalized areas and implements the Ribbon of Green Master Plan.

appropriate, financially feasible and realistically sustainable. ):1 Planning and Development administers the North Saskatchewan River Valley Bylaw to identify and mitigate environmental impacts of development activities in the river valley.

Ict Community Services uses Municipal Reserve credits to save natural areas where ecologically

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment •

Planning and Development manages the land development process, which includes reviewing natural site assessments as part of Policy C467. Community Services is frequently involved in the review.

and public education. The report was released for consultation on February 22, 2001.

Future Initiatives •

11 The City and the province are working to determine crown interests in water bodies to enhance their conservation in Edmonton.

Planning and Development .initiated work on a Top of Bank policy to protect the river valley and ravine.sy stem from urban encroachment and to provide public access to the river. valley and ravine system. tz• Community Services' Integrated Service Strategy created a structure for a comprehensive, integrated plan for the river valley, natural areas and open spaces, which may result in acquisition standards that include retention of natural features.

11 The Klarvatten Wetland Management Plan, completed for Poplar Lake (July 2000), includes retaining a 12-hectare water body as a "stonnwater influenced wetland". The Klarvatten Plan is a template for future management plans.

Ict Community Services partnered with the ' Alberta Environmental Ne.twork on a contract to develop a short list of natural areas for proactive conservation activity and provide recommendations on stewardship, fundraising

As recommended in the Integrated Service *Strategy, Community Services will prepare an open space strategy that will consider the need and demand for retention of natural areas and other open spaces.

Community Services will recommend an implementation strategy for Policy C467 in June 2001. The intent is to conserve more natural areas earlier in the development process through a partnership approach.

11 Community Services will work with partners to examine the feasibility of an external Land Trust for on-going conservation action. rt Community Services will work with partners to establish a Partnership Protocol confirming relationships between stakeholders in conservation.

•

An important natural area will be conserved through the Discovery Village/Winterburn Pond Natural Area Management Plan, which is nearing completion and will be included in the zoning application in 2001.

•

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

Challenges The challenge is to identify and conserve natural sites as early as possible in the planning process.

It is not realistic to rely on city funds alone to conserve natural areas. Conservation of natural areas requires widespread community and City support. Partnerships in conservation will be critical to amplifying the City's efforts.

May 2001

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

2.3 Sustainable Urban Form expansion of infrastructure networks; and the amount of fuel burned for heating and to move people and goods. Making efficient and effective use of Edmonton's land resources and providing an efficient transportation system that facilitates alternative travel modes helps lessen the impact of urban development on the natural environment.

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

Risks Intensification of urban land may cause concern in mature areas of the City because there is not widespread support by property owners in 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 provision of more public transit and other non-motorized travel modes.

•Strategic Framework Objective:

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

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.

•Strategic Initiatives • 1:1 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 tesources in making planning recommendations to Council.

r( Planning and Development promotes contiguous development patterns and development staging to reduce the overall cost of building and maintaining infrastructure. rl Transportation and Streets actively intervenes in the design of new subdivisions to ensure •12

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

development in a manner that promotes good access to transit service and includes an effective pedestrian circulation system that provides good, direct access to local amenities.

Council on March 20, 2001. The project commenced immediately.

III The City has requested funding from the federal and provincial governments to fund part • of the South Light Rapid Transit (LRT), which would provide an alternative to private vehicle use.

1:t Transportation and Streets is retrofitting the existing transportation system to enhance the viability of non-motorized travel modes. ):( The Downtown Plan's initiative to provide for more housing in downtown is succeeding.

):x The City has requested funding from the federal and provincial governments to fund a multi-use cOrridor and heritage trail, which would increase opportunities for alternate modes of travel.

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

LI The City works with the development industry and school boards to ensure that it takes no more land than necessary for long-term school a,nd park needs. Community Services will be considering the standards in the next two years, as it reviews the need and demand for retention of natural areas and other open spaces (see 2.2 Natural Heritage).

Futufe Initiatives 1:1 Planning and Development's Terms of Reference for an Edmonton Urban Land Intensification Strategy was approved by City

Challenges Striking a balance between intensification of land use and community concerns about changes that may affect them will be an ongoing challenge.

Intensification of land use within the City of Edmonton's boundaries will be affected by land use activity and patterns in the Edmonton Capital Region.

Intensification of land use within the City of Edmonton's boundaries may affect choices and balance in the location, characteristics and availability of residential, commercial and industrial properties. This may mean moving from the status quo to a different view of urban form.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

2.4 AGRICULTURAL LANDS CLASSIFICATION

rtm

Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue To Preserve Agricultural Lands In Balance With Other.

Land Useg

2.4 Agricultural Lands of agriculture and development at the urban fringe is an issue. A 1996 study examined 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.

As the City of Edmonton grows and its built-up areas expand, land is converted from agricultural to urban use. High qualityagricultural land is a valuable resource, but its land values are not as high as those for urban uses. Locally-grown food is a component of sustainability and there may be increasing awareness of its value. Compatibility

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

Strategic Framework Objective:

To avoid premature loss of agricultural lands.

Key Strategies:

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

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

Future Initiatives ):x Monitoring of development of agricultural lands and issues that may affect them is ongoing and a report will be prepared for the City's Environmental Steering Committee.

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

Challenges As Edmonton grows and its built-up areas expand, land is converted from agricultural to urban use. The current strategy, as stated in Plan Edmonton, is to preserve agricultural land until needed for urban development. The challenge is to maintain viable agricultural operations for as long as possible.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

2.5 WASTE MANAGEMENT REDUCEdw REUSE tO RECYCLE

CLASSIFICATION Enhance existing environmental performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Improve Waste Management Practices

2.5 Waste Management 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 Edmontort's 1994 Waste Management Strategic Plan have been implemented. The Waste Management Branch continues to monitor developments in the industry.

Risks Residents and businesses must be provided access to reasonably convenient and cost-effective means of waste removal and disposal. Securing long-term landfill capacity will ensure this takes place.

Strategic '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.

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

updated to adopt best practices and meet the changing needs of the community.

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

1:( Recognizing that compliance with program requirements is critical to the success of waste management programs, public education and information sharing are considered priorities. ):t A sustainable financing model is pursued• through a comprehensive program of cost evaluation and effective long-term planning and ongoing evaluation of new technologies and best business practices.

rl To maximize diversion from landfill, the City. and its partners operating recycling and composting facilities. are evaluating new and innovative uses for the materials currently classified as "residual" after processing in the facilities.

II The 30-year Waste Management Strategic Plan is a "living document" to be evaluated and 16 May 2001

Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

1c1 Implementation of initiatives identified in the Strategic Plan continues, including optimization of collection systems with dual compartment collection vehicles. The benefits will be improved cost efficiency and reduced traffic and emissions in the community.

Future Initiatives ):r The City, through the Centre of Excellence, is pursuing grants from higher levels of government and the private sector to develop new waste management technologies and optimize existing ones.

1cl New initiatives to increase recycling rates include evaluation of curbside recycling collection for multi-family complexes.

tx Development of strong markets for recyclables and compost will continue.

With the City-controlled, residential waste stream managed effectively, efforts will focus on other elements of the urban waste stream including electronics waste and construction and demolition (C&D) waste.

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.

Challenges The City's current 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 service are provided to all sectors of the community in a competitive manner.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

2.6 ENERGY MANAGEMENT !I

CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

a. STRATEGIC DIRECTION Improve Energy Efficiency

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

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 increases in retail prices for power and natural gas have become common media topics.

The City's efforts in energy management have 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 the Alberta economy in 2001. The Alberta Government's rebate and price stabilization programs further shielded the City and, in a short-term sense, resulted in some facilities realizing exceptionally low energy costs.

The City participates in the utility regulatory process on behalf of citizens, with a particular emphasis on matters related to natural gas. The Office of Energy Management 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.

Risks Energy consumption is a major aspect of the greenhouse gas emissions issue (see 2.1 Climate Change).

High costs for energy are a natural and strong 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. This could reduce the • intensity of City efforts to reduce energy use.

Strategic 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 non-renewable energy resources.

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

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

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Strategic Initiatives The City established a $5 million Energy Management Revolving Fund (EMRF) for building retrofits. The fund strives to sustain or exceed $1.5 million per year in commitments to retrofit projects in City buildings.

City facilities, which now are expected to meet or exceed the standards set by the National Energy Code for Buildings.

Future Initiatives ):( The FEMC serves mainly as a technical and feasibility review forum for projects submitted for EMRF funding. It is only moderately effective in transmitting other utility-related information among departments and the corporate Office of Energy Management. The FEMC will be augmented, enhanced, or replaced as the coordinating group for the energy management function.

)cl Applications have been made to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for funding for energy efficiency projects. Some funding has been approved. Projects will be implemented in 2001 - 2002.

1:( Federal programs such as the Commercial Buildings Incentives Program (CBE)) have become a factor in the design basis of recent

Challenges Improving staff awareness and coordination between departments.

Accurately tracking, verifying, and reporting utility usage and consumption.

Ensuring that technical standards are current and appropriate.

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

3.1 DRINKING WATER CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Water Quality Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Ensure A Continuing Safe Supply Of Potable Water

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

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.

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

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

Risks 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.

Strategic Framework Objective:

To ensure a continuing safe and abundant supply of potable water

Key Strategies:

3.1.1 Maintain and enhance protection of Edmonton's water source 3.1.2 Develop and maintain partnerships to address water quality issues 3.1.3 Maintain community awareness and participation to conserve water 3.1.4 Continue to monitor and react to trends in potable water quality

Strategic Initiatives EPCOR is participating with Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, Alberta Environment, Alberta Health and Wellness and the universities of Alberta and Calgary in an upstream watershed project to determine sources of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in the North Saskatchewan River watershed. The final report is due in September 2001.

1=1 EPCOR participates in the City's River Water Quality Task Force (see 3.1 Surface Water), which is coordinating projects for an integrated approach to river water quality improvements. la 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 20

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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.

Future Initiatives • EPCOR is developing plans for an Upstream Early Warning Monitoring Station for water quality in 2002, 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).

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

• EPCOR is looking at ways to improve plant treatment disinfection for microbiological contaminants,

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.

The plan will include • Installation of UV light disinfection at the Edmonton water plants.

• A plan for dechlorination of treated water discharges to storm sewers or surface waters.

Challenges Health Canada 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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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

3.2 SURFACE WATER • CLASSIFICATION Enhance Existing Environmental Performance

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Improve Surface Water Quality

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

Use of surface water in the City is increasing, particularly for recreation.

leader in wastewater treatment and exceeds the requirements of its approval by wide margins.

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

In 1998-99, Alberta Environment (AENV) rated the NSR upstream of Edmonton as "good", while downstream was rated "fair" as measured by the Alberta Surface Water Quality Index.

The index includes metals, nutrients, bacteria and pesticides. Water quality downstream of Edmonton, particularly with respect to bacteria, improved in 1998 due to upgraded municipal wastewater treatment (disinfection).

The City has bylaws and bylaw enforcement to control industrial and commercial discharges to its sewers; however, certain discharges to the river, for example, those from the Alberta Capital Region Wastewater Commission's plant, major refineries and chemical plants are not under the City's control, but are regulated by Alberta Environment.

AENV regulates discharges to surface waters through its approval process. Edmonton is a

Risks The North Saskatchewan River is used as a drinking water Source (see 3.1 Drinking Water). There is a number of emerging watershed risks. Microbial contaminants, Giardia and Ciyptosporidium, are monitored and their risk managed. Health risks posed by chemicals and spills to the river may need additional monitoring and risk management.

Ammonia in the aquatic environment, road salt and other, substances are, or are proposed to be, declared "toxic" under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. Source loadings and the ecological risk posed by these substances to local receiving waters need to be quantified and managed.

Strategic Framework Objective:

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

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. ,

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Report on Environmental Performance • City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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

Strategic Initiatives rt Environment protection plans being implemented include GBWWTP upgrades and a • Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control • Strategy. The performance measure is to meet (or exceed) AENV's Approval requirements.

keep the NSR clean. Over 40,000 contacts have been made each year since 1997. rt The River Water Quality Task Force Report (1997) outlines a strategic plan for river water quality within Edmonton. Implementation of the recommendations is underway.

II A tertiary treatment upgrade is well underway at GBWWTP. Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) will reduce the nutrients, phosphorus and ammonia-nitrogen, by more than 70%. Since 1999,30% of the plant has been operating in the BNR mode. BNR will be fully implemented by 2005. Ultraviolet disinfection began in 1997.

tx Drainage Services, EPCOR Water Services and Alberta Environment share a surface water quality database. This facilitates a common understanding of water quality issues.

Future Initiatives

rx The CSO Control Strategy was developed after five years of study, including public involvement. Major expenditures on the CSO Control Strategy will occur between 2003 and 2016. A key element of the strategy is construction of enhanced primary treatment for wet weather flows at GBWWTP.

rt The City requested funding from the Infrastructure Canada Alberta Program to facilitate implementation of the CSO Control Strategy, and Creek and Wetland Conservation for Industrial Development projects to improve the quality of discharges to the NSR. Drainage Services asked Council for direction to establish a stormwater utility: Establishing a utility will secure financial resources to better meet the demand for capital works to provide environmental benefits.

1:4 Source control and other stormwater quality improvement measures include: • Yellow Fish Road storm drain marking program • upgrading snow storage sites (3 of 4 complete) • . Mill Creek On-line Oil Removal Facility

•

1:( Drainage Services is helping to address watershed issues through membership in the North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance.

The City applied to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Green Municipal Enabling Fund to help fund an Ammonia Reduction Strategies feasibility study.

xzt• EPCOR Water Services is developing a plan to control CEPA regulated substances and is piloting options for dechlorination of drinking water discharged to the river (see 3.1 Drinking Water).

)Dt Drainage Services' active public outreach program, called "Towards a Cleaner River", lets Edmontonians know what they can do to help

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.

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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

3.3 Indoor Air moulds, vehicle exhaust and other outdoor sources (see 3.4 Ambient Air).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Capital Health 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.

Indoor air contaminants can include particulates, gases and vapours produced due to the nature of indoor space, by occupants and their activities, or brought inside from outdoors. Contaminant sources may include gases released from carpets and building materials, chemicals such as cleaning agents, tobacco smoke, micro-organisms such as

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

Risks 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.

Strategic Framework Objective:

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

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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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton . Office of the Environment

Strategic 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.

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

Future Initiatives •

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

tx 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.

11 The Office of the Environment will work with Capital Health to provide information to assist persons to quit smoking.

Ict The City's amended Smoking Bylaw, which comes 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.

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

):( Asset Management and Public Works is upgrading ventilation systems in arenas or using electric ice resurfacers.

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

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 ventilation rates are not addressed.

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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

3.4 Ambient Air • Pollutants in the air around us (ambient air) include emissions from industrial and commercial operations, transportation, and residences.

Edmonton generally has good quality ambient air.

Alberta Environment operates three permanent monitoring stations in Edmonton. Air quality, measured by the Index of the Quality of the Air (IQUA), is "good" more than 98% of the time at two stations and 96% of the time at the third (2000 data).

Odour, poor visibility and property deterioration indicate poor air quality. The public sometimes expresses concern during forest fires, oil well blowouts and temperature inversions with calm winds.

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

The City has little direct control over air emissions, but works with federal and provincial agencies. City initiatives to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases (see 2.1 Climate Change) and encourage energy efficiency (see 2.6 Energy Management) help improve air quality. Urban design also affects energy use and air emissions (see 2.3 Sustainable Urban Form).

Parameters measured include carbon monoxide, dust and smoke, inhalable particulates, oxides of nitrogen, ozone, hydrogen sulphide, and total hydrocarbons. Air quality generally has improved because of improvements in vehicle design and energy efficiency. The occasional conditions of "fair" air quality are due mainly to exceedances in ground-level ozone and particulates.

Risks Edmonton is located in a natural depression, which may trap pollutants in the region and allow them to accumulate to unsafe levels.

Lack of due diligence in managing air quality may lead to health risks and negative effects on quality of life. VOCs, particulates and other pollutants cause respiratory ailments such as emphysema and asthma and result in increased health care costs and loss of workplace productivity.

In sufficient concentrations; air pollutants impact vegetation and cause deterioration of buildings.

Strategic 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 Government 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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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Strategic Initiatives •

/rt The Office of the Environment is working with Alberta Environment to prepare an updated inventory of emissions within the City, which will help focus future initiatives.

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

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

rt The City applies the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board's (EUB) guidelines for "Sour Well Licensing and Drilling" for minimum separation between sour gas wells and other land uses to minimize environmental and health impacts of these operations.

Future Initiatives rt The City, in partnership with Alberta Environment, is developing a comprehensive plan to address ambient air quality. The plan will consider recommendations from CASA (expected in June 2002), new standards for PM and ground level ozone, and other air contaminants, and the implications for Edmonton.

" The Transportation and Streets Department uses a computer model for estimating and forecasting emissions from private vehicles, based on technology and travel choices. This allows the City to determine if vehicle emissions will increase over time.

The plan may include • collection of data on sources and concentrations of PM and ozone in the City.

• performance measures for managing PM and ground-level ozone.

• public awareness initiatives in partnership with the province or CASA.

rx The City's fleet replacement program is replacing existing vehicles with newer, cleaner technology that produces fewer emissions.

1Dt Asset Management and Public Works is reducing odours from the sewer system and at the Gold Bar Waste Water Treatment Plant The programs are intended to reduce the number of public complaints about nuisance odours.

1:1 Information from the inventory of emissions will be put on the City's web site.

Challenges There is increasing recognition that human health may be impacted by a relatively few occurrences of poor air quality and that the current IQUA may not adequately reflect health risks.

In June 2000, the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCIVIE) endorsed Canada-wide standards for particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone. The province, in consultation with stakeholders, is developing implementation plans. Meanwhile, standards are being developed for PM10_2.5 and analysis is continuing to revise or supplement the standards.

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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

3.5 Ozone Layer Ozone is a natural and vital gas in the stratosphere, a layer in the upper atmosphere. 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 break down the protective ozone layer.

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.

Under Alberta's Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulation, 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.

Ozone-friendly replacement chemicals exist and substantial progress has been made in reducing

Risks

•

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 over-exposure 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.

Strategic Framework Objective:

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

Key Strategies:

3.5.1 Continue to reduce releases of ozone-depleting substances.

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.

28 May 2001

Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

•Strategic Initiatives ):( The City has reduced its use of CFCs in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. CFCs are collected and destroyed. . rt Hand-held, halon fire extinguishers under the control and maintenance of the City were switched over to CO2 or dry chemical extinguishers in 1993.

T:1 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.

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

171 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.

Ict Accidental releases of ODS are reported to Alberta Environment.

Challenges The federal government's National Action Plan for the Environmental Control of Ozone-Depleting Substances (OSD) 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.

29 May 2001

Report on Environmental Performance • City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.1 IN,D4STRIAL RELEASES • CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue To Prevent and Mitigate Harmful Industrial Releases

4.1 Industrial Releases Edmonton and the neighboring region is the largest chemical and petrochemical-producing center in Canada and the second largest in North America. Industrial facilities produce chemicals for local, regional and international markets.

Road, rail; and pipeline systems distribute raw or finished products, widely used to provide goods vital to our way of life, and the basis for the economic well-being of the region.

The manufacturing facilities and the distribution modes are subject to strict federal and provincial regulations and guidelines. Major pipelines are subject to rigorous inspection and maintenance protocols. Alberta Environment is the key

regulator of industrial releases and requires that planned and accidental releases are reported.

Industrial releases create concern among the public and 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 many major industrial companies occurs through the Strathcona Industrial Association to provide mutual aid.

Risks Major chemical and petrochemical producers in the Edmonton area have increased production 10 to 50 per cent per year during the last five years. Over the same time, there have been staff reductions of 10 to 25 per cent 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.

Strategic Framework Objective:

To pro tect the community and the physical environment from industrial releases.

Key Strategies

4.1.1 4.1.2 4.1.3 4.1.4

Maintain emergency response capabilities to industrial releases.

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

Encourage increased community awareness of safety protocols developed by industry.

Continue to monitor industrial releases within the city boundaries.

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

):1 Drainage Branch, Asset Management and Public Works, monitors, and, with the Emergency Response Department, mitigates 30

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Board's regulations. 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.

chemical releases that may enter storm drain systems leading to the river. Trained personnel and resources are ready to address river spills (see 3.2 Surface Water).

ERD has a highly trained and well-equipped Dangerous Goods Response Team to deal with chemical spills within the jurisdiction of the City to protect life, property and the environment.

The Dangerous Goods Team and other Fire/Rescue crews train annually with industrial responders to maintain skills and review response procedures.

rl The Edmonton Police Service's Truck Detail enforces provincial and federal legislation regarding transportation of hazardous substances.

Future Initiatives 1=f The draft Zoning Bylaw contains an innovative industrial section that requires 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.

1:( ERD crews annually inspect industrial facilities to monitor compliance with the Fire Code for the safe storage of hazardous chemicals.

The City is a member of the Strathcona Industrial Association, which monitors air quality at more than 2'5 locations and provides information to Alberta Environment on a • monthly basis (see 3.4 Ambient Air).

1=r ERD and other member corporations of the Strathcona Industrial Association present public information sessions on the emergency preparedness and response by industry and the City in dealing with industrial emergencies.

II Major pipelines in the Edmonton area are subject to the Alberta Energy and Utilities

Challenges The Emergency Response Department should perform a hazard analysis on major industry within its jurisdiction to determine the requirements for additional 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.

31 May.2001

Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.2 fZARDOUS MATERIALS - ,ki 114• CLASSIFICATION Continue To Meet Current Standards

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Continue To Reduce Exposure To Hazardous Materials

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

Strategic 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.

Strategic Initiatives r Emergency Response Plans are legislated for

that help reduce exposure to hazardous materials.

industry and other users of hazardous materials

32 May 2001

Report on Environmental:Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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

Ict Asset Management and Public Works operates two ECO Stations that annually collect thousands of tonnes of unwanted household hazardous materials for safe treatment, disposal or recycling (see 2.5 Waste Management).

tl 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),

):4 The Emergency Response Department (ERD) has a highly trained and well-equipped 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).

rx Many industries in Edmonton have annual open houses to increase public awareness of industrial processes, safety features, and the benefit to the community.

1:1• Transportation and Streets and the ERD's system of Dangerous Goods Routes manages the movement of hazardous materials on City streets.

-Future Initiatives

rx 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.

x:( 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)

• rx 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).

rt 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.

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.

33 May 2001

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

4.3 Contaminated Lands .

Corporate actions are responsible and diligent (see 4.1 Industrial Releases).

Most contaminated sites are on private property and result from operations involving underground storage of fuels and other commercial and industrial activities. Migration of contaminants from a site can be accelerated in disturbed soil around utility lines, 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.

Several operational areas respond to contamination depending on whether contamination 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 in the City.

Providing service connections to potentially contaminated sites is a concern because of worker health and safety; impacts of contaminants on pipe. material; seepage of contaminants through pipe walls and impact on water quality. Utility owners may be concerned .that their utilities within City rights of way may be adversely affected by contaminated soils.

Alberta Environment and Capital Health 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 also has a Release Reporting Policy for reporting spills to ensure

•

Risks

Migration of contaminants has a negative impact on ground water, surface water and ambient air quality and may lead to human exposure and possible health and safety impacts. There can be a risk to City workers installing service connections in contaminated soils. Contaminated soils can adversely affect infrastructure; e.g., pipe may be infiltrated or telephone cables may fail.

Prior to certain planning approvals or property transfers, contaminated land must be cleaned-up before it is suitable for future use. The cost of remediation can be high.

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

Strategic 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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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

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

The Planning and Development department has a draft policy that provides direction to developers on the information requirements and process for dealing with potentially contaminated lands in structure plans, rezonings, road closures and subdivision proposals. The policy will be presented to City Council in 2001.

1=k

impacts to right-of-ways and utility corridors, road maintenance and construction, utility maintenance and installation and worker health and safety, and determine remediation requirements. • Ict The City is finalizing a generic Risk Assessment of the Protection of Workers, Physical Integrity of Pipe and Seepage Quality.

11 Drainage Services has written a draft procedure for dealing with contaminated soil during installation of underground utilities.

1:4 The City has applied for funding through Alberta Municipal Affairs' Underground Petroleum Storage Tank Remediation Program to clean up selected orphaned sites for which the City has taken ownership.

1--1 The Emergency Response Department inspects businesses for compliance with the Fire Code. If contamination presents a fire or explosion hazard or other serious environmental hazard, information is passed to Alberta Environment for monitoring and enforcement.

Future Initiatives rt 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.

1=t Asset Management and Public Works, and Transportation and Streets review reports on site contamination for various departments to ensure that property transfers of contaminated lands are dealt with appropriately, prevent the City from . acquiring contaminated land unawares, assess

Challenges In an urban setting, it is not always easy to determine from where contamination is originating when several potential sources exist.

Most contaminated sites are adjacent to City right-of-ways. Remediation in right-of-ways requires' road reconstruction. The City should 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. Development of these criteria is hampered by limited scientific understanding of contaminant-soil interactions.

35 May 2001

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

4.4 Pesticides The use of pesticides (including herbicides and insecticides) in City operations, the agricultural sector and by the general public may cause damage to non-target species. The City has defmed policies and procedures for the use of pesticides on City lands to protect the public, employees and environmental health. The federal and provincial governments enforce regulatory requirements for municipal and commercial applications.

The use of pesticides by the 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, an aquatic herbicide, to control weed and algae growth in stormwater management ponds. It is applied by City employees who are licensed pesticide applicators. The use of Reglone A is minimized wherever possible. Drainage Services also uses the pesticide, Sanafoam Vaporooter, to control tree root growth in sewers.

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

Risks Lack of due diligence in managing pesticides can lead to health risks and negative effects on quality of life.

Strategic 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.

Strategic Initiatives made by the Broadleaf Weed Control Committee. Strict safety precautions, including signage at treatment sites, are taken, when applying pesticides to City property, to

The City defines policies and procedures for pesticide applications on City lands. Weed control standards were approved by City Council in 1997 based on recommendations 36 May 2001

Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

protect the public, employee and environmental health. City employees are licensed pesticide applicators.

discontinuation of chemical trimming along fence lines and obstacles abutting city property. a 30 metre, "no-spray" buffer is provided around playground apparatus.

Exemptions programs are available to have green spaces maintained without the use of pesticides. These programs include: • a petition to designate parkland as "herbicide free" is available to residents abutting such parldand. the Medical Alert Pesticide Program offers citizens with medical sensitivities options of restricting all pesticide applications within 30 metres of their residential property or notification of any pesticide application within 100 metres of their residential property. • the Herbicide Exemption Request Program offers citizens the option of

•Future Initiatives rf The City of Edmonton will monitor the City's use of pesticides following guidelines established to maintain the quality of air, land and water through the adoption of enforcement of regulations and guidelines that reduce pollution and contamination.

1:( The City will continue to explore nonchemical solutions to problematic weeds and insects.

Challenges 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 residents than by the City.

37 May 2001

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

4.5 Noise Edmontonians often express concern about ongoing exposure to noise, particularly trafficrelated noise.

The City's Transportation Master Plan, approved

by Council in 1999, provides direction to continue to apply the UTNP to fulfill Strategic Goal D: "Mitigate the Community Impacts of the Transportation System."

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.

Currently, the noise attenuation program is • considered annually in the Capital Budget, but continues to be unfunded until 2005. To date, noise measurements have not identified any locations in the City of Edmonton that exceed the 70 dBA noise threshold.

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

Land use and transportation initiatives to address "Sustainable .Urban Form" objectives may lead to residential intensification adjacent to major transportation corridors, increasing the exposure of residents to traffic-related noise. If noise levels are not considered during the planning stages of intensification, noise mitigation may be difficult or costly to achieve.

• Strategic 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.

Strategic Initiatives 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.

T1

rx Transportation and Streets is implementing Policy D-2 of the Transportation Master Plan to "update and apply the Urban Traffic Noise 38

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Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Policy." Updating noise measurements at key locations in the City is underway, as is research into the noise policies and threshold levels of other Canadian jurisdictions.

Noise Bylaw, in conjunction with the Law Branch, is contemplated

Future Initiatives 11 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.

Development Compliance Branch of Planning and Development enforces the City of Edmonton's Noise Bylaw #7255 (1994), which pertains to non-traffic noise. The Branch also monitors noise sources within its jurisdiction and raises community awareness regarding the impacts of noise as well as noise control options available to the community. A review of the

Ict Revision of the UTNP is expected to be completed and forwarded for Council approval by the Fall of 2001.

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.

39 May 2001

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

4.6 Light Pollution issues (usually a request for more lighting), not light pollution. However, an unnecessary use of lights is a waste of energy.

Light pollution - excessive or unnecessary light may occur indoors or outdoors. The few known concerns raised by Edmontonians are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Most relate to security

Risks Indoor lighting may cause irritation and possible other negative health effects due to its frequency (wavelength) or excessive intensity.

Overly-bright outdoor lighting, such as signs and security lighting, may be deemed intrusive; some people complain about excessive urban lighting as the cause of stars not being visible from within the city.

Strategic Framework Objective:

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

Key Strategies:

4.6.1 Monitor citizen concerns and federal and provincial activities related to light pollution.

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

Future 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.

Challenges

40 May 2001

• Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.7 ELEcaTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS i CLASSIFICATION Monitor Environmental Situation

i STRATEGIC DIRECTION •

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

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

Alternating current (AC) fields create weak electric currents in the bodies of people and animals. This is one reason why there is potential for EMFs to cause biological effects. Scientists

continue to investigate links between alleged effects and exposure; however, to date there is ho clear evidence that EMFs, at the levels normally experienced, are responsible for deleterious health effects.

Risks Weak associations have been found between increased cancer risk and power line configurations, which are thought to be surrogates for magnetic fields.

Strategic Framework Objective:

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

Key Strategies:

4.7.1 Monitor information sources related to electric and magnetic fields.

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

Future Initiatives /1 The Office of the Environment will bring emerging issues to the attention of City administrators.

Challenges Electromagnetic sensitivity syndrome (ES) is a physiological disorder characterized by symptoms believed by some to be directly brought on by exposure to electric and magnetic fields. ES is a public health concern in some countries.

41 May 2001

Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

4.8 ACID RAIN •CLASSIFICATION Monitor Environmental Situation

STRATEGIC DIRECTION Monitor And Assess Situation Regarding Acid Rain

4.8 Acid Rain Acid deposition, a newer term for acid rain, takes into account both wet and dry deposition. It results from emissions of sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitric and nitrous oxides (NO) and their subsequent return to earth. These chemicals result from various industrial and commercial operations, transportation, and residential sources.

Acid deposition can result from local emissions or be due to emissions carried by winds from distant sources.

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

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

The Clean Air Strategic Alliance (CASA) and Alberta Environment continue work on acid deposition issue especially in northeastern Alberta, an area with a large amount of emissions.

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

Strategic Framework Objective:

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

Key Strategies:

4.8.1 Monitor federal and provincial activities and trends related to acid deposition.

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

Future Initiatives rx The Office of the Environment will conduct an assessment of issues for Edmonton related to acid deposition. rz The Office of the Environment will prepare, as needed, information updates on acid rain for inclusion on the City's web site.

42 May 2001

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• Report on Environmental Performance City Of Edmonton Office of the Environment

Challenges The inventory of emissions for Edmonton has not been updated since 1982. The 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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Report on Environmental Performance City OfEdmonton Office of the Environment

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