Overview
Metro Vancouver is pursuing supportive measures to accelerate the transition from small gas-powered equipment to emissions-free alternatives.
Small gas-powered equipment (such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and pressure washers) is used by industry and in maintaining public spaces. This equipment releases a significant amount of emissions – including fine particles and nitrogen oxides – which are harmful when inhaled.
Transitioning from small gas-powered equipment to emission-free alternatives reduces air pollution and protects public health. Emission-free equipment (typically electric) is growing in popularity, availability, and performance. It has an added benefit of reducing noise pollution.
Examples of supportive measures
There is a range of actions that can accelerate the transition from small gas-powered equipment to emission-free alternatives, such as:
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Promoting cleaner technologies: Encouraging the adoption of emission-free equipment, for example through education and research into procurement practices.
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Supporting best practices: Providing information on the use and maintenance of emission-free equipment and charging solutions. For example, exchanging information through case studies on fleet transitions and convening equipment users to explore solutions together.
Why emission-free equipment matters
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Significant impact: Small gas-powered equipment produces about half as much health-harming emissions as the nearly 1.5 million cars and pick-up trucks in the region.
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Air pollution: Gas-powered equipment releases emissions containing volatile organic compounds (VOC), fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen oxides (NOx), as well as carbon monoxide (CO). These can contribute to health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems. This equipment also releases carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas.
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Benefits of emission-free alternatives: Electric equipment produces zero direct emissions, which improves air quality and reduces health risks for the community. Emission-free equipment is typically quieter, and has an added benefit of reducing noise pollution.