Back by popular demand, Campbell River’s wood stove exchange program encourages people to upgrade older wood stoves, with rebates available from March 1 through April 30, 2011.
Last year 39 residents took advantage of the program, and a similar number of $250 rebates are available this year – on a first come, first served basis.
“As the burning season starts to wind down, this is a good time to consider switching out old uncertified smoky appliances with a high-efficiency wood, pellet or gas heating appliance,” says Mayor Charlie Cornfield. “In addition to City rebates, savings offered by retailers and manufacturers make upgrading a wood stove a cost-effective and an environmentally sound decision.”
Mobile air quality monitoring will continue as part of this year’s program. “While we are pleased to see that levels of fine particulate matter are generally very low, the preliminary results also confirm that there are a number of low-lying areas within the City that are ‘hot spots’ for wood smoke pollution,” says Councillor Roy Grant, liaison to the City’s Environmental Advisory Committee. “We want to continue to work toward achieving the best air quality possible for our residents.”
The Vancouver Island Health Authority recognizes that fine particulate air pollution generated by older wood stoves contributes to many types of diseases, especially lung and heart disease. Fine particulates are considered the most important outdoor air pollutant from a public health perspective.
“Technology is only part of the solution to pollution reduction,” says Peter Woods, Chair of the City’s Environmental Advisory Committee. “Burning wood is also an art, and there are many folks who take pride in a well-seasoned wood pile and maintaining a smoke free fire.”
Burn It Smart, wood pile pride education and outreach events will take place throughout the wood stove exchange program. Program details will be available soon.
Information on the Woodstove Exchange Program and wood heating is available on the city website (www.campbellriver.ca). Residents who would like to participate in the exchange program should contact Pam Auld at 250-286-5874 or email pam.auld@campbellriver.ca.