May 29, 2009
COLDSTREAM, BC – As part of the Regional District of North Okanagan’s and the City of Vernon’s commitment to Clean Air Day, Vernon Regional Transit invites you to leave your vehicle at home on Wednesday June 3, 2009 and take the bus, free-of-charge.
The RDNO service participants are pleased to provide free transit to North Okanagan residents in support of our community’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to help keep our air clean.
“We encourage residents to ride transit for free on Clean Air Day. We hope many people take advantage of the event, including individuals who have never tried the transit system,” adds Nicole Marzinzik, RDNO Air Quality Coordinator. “Clean Air Day is also part of Commuter Challenge week; so alternatively, residents can walk or bike to work.”
As part of the June 3rd promotion, a complimentary continental style breakfast will be offered at the Vernon Bus Terminus, the busiest bus location, from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. The Downtown Safeway and Starbucks are supplying the fresh coffee and breakfast treats. Anyone commuting by bus, walking or cycling to work can take advantage of this treat.
Clean Air Day was proclaimed by the Government of Canada to increase public awareness and action on two environmental priorities, clean air and climate change. It is also part of Canadian Environment Week, created to promote and celebrate activities that nurture our environment.
For bus route information, log onto www.bctransit.com/regions/ver/ or call the Vernon Regional Transit Information line at 250-545-7221.
For more information on Clean Air Day, the Commuter Challenge and Canadian Environment Week activities throughout our community, click on www.rdno.ca or www.vernon.ca.
For more information:
Nicole Marzinzik
RDNO Air Quality Coordinator
250.550.3773
nmarzinzik@rdno.ca
Nicole Kohnert
RDNO Manager of Environmental Services
250.550.3741
nkohnert@rdno.ca
BACKGROUNDER: TIPS TO MAKE EVERY DAY CLEAN AIR DAY
1. Reduce vehicle use on Clean Air Day
Walk, cycle or take Vernon Regional Transit. Emissions from vehicles contribute to our air quality problems and our greenhouse gas impact. Leave your car at home if possible and/or limit car trips by doing all your errands at once. Hold a teleconference instead of travelling to meetings.
2. Drive clean
If you must drive, try carpooling. Keep your car well tuned – a well maintained vehicle runs better and pollutes less. Shut the engine off, even for short stops – on minute of idling uses more fuel than restarting your engine. Drive at moderate speeds anc check your tires regularly.
3. Use air-friendly products on Clean Air Day
Avoid using aerosol sprays/cleaners, oil-based paints and other chemical products that contribute to poor indoor and outdoor air quality.
