Transboundary Air Quality

The quality of the air in the Puget Sound Georgia Basin ecosystem affects the health of the people who live here, the health of the ecosystem, and our ability to enjoy our famous vistas. The air pollution that degrades our air quality originates from dozens of different activities within the ecosystem, such as driving cars and trucks, manufacturing paper, refining crude oil and burning wood.

Air pollutants in this transboundary airshed don't recognize the international border. Pollutants can drift from the United States to Canada, and vice versa. For this reason, the organizations that seek to improve the air quality in the region have recognized that they will be more successful if they share information and work cooperatively across the international border. These cooperative activities are leading to better understanding of the science of the airshed and to improved programs that aim to reduce emissions of air pollution.