Decision to end AirCare by 2014 short-sighted, means more pollution and less jobs

VANCOUVER, May 24, 2012 /CNW/ - The decision to scrap AirCare emissions testing for passenger vehicles in 2014 is short sighted, and will mean more pollution, more health problems and a loss of jobs in Metro Vancouver the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU) said today. 

"AirCare helps everyone breathe easier, so we welcome the decision to introduce heavy duty vehicle testing," says BCGEU President Darryl Walker. "But AirCare is more cost-effective in removing pollutants from the atmosphere than any other transportation-based measure, so why would you scrap light vehicle testing in 2014," asks Walker.

AirCare has had a measurable, positive effect on air quality in the Lower Mainland, and would continue to do so until 2020, according to an independent review.

"Emission standards for new cars deteriorate faster than previously thought, and around 12% of tested cars still fail AirCare every year - that's nearly 40,000 cars," says Walker. "At least 12,000 people every year drive around with the 'engine malfunction' light on, and many choose to ignore it until AirCare." The transportation sector accounts for 40% of B.C. climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions. 

AirCare repairs and preventative maintenance also provide $35 million per year in revenue for the automotive repair industry, and $21 million per year in new vehicle sales for drivers who choose not to repair failing cars.

Air pollution affects everyone, and particularly young children, seniors and people with respiratory problems. There are measurable healthcare benefits to AirCare, including $77 million in savings by 2020 according to an independent AirCare review.

For these reasons, both Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Regional District unanimously endorsed an extension to AirCare until 2020, with the addition of a heavy-duty testing program.

"We are shocked and disappointed to learn that the light vehicle testing program will be scrapped in 2014," says Walker. The union enquired about the future of AirCare in a May 15 letter to government, but never received a response. 

"Our 114 AirCare workers help everyone breathe easier. Their jobs are real 'green jobs' that drive the economy and save the environment," says Walker.

The BCGEU will be working with Envirotest Canada in addressing this transition phase, while doing our best to protect the interests of our members.

Media, please contact Oliver Rohlfs, Communications, 778-318-9164