It's a worthy step but somewhat insignificant in the bigger pictures.
Mayor Lois Jackson had that observation as Delta council unanimously gave approval recently to a bylaw amendment to completely ban smoking in all parks and playgrounds.
Following the lead of several of B.C. communities, and aimed at promoting a healthier environment, the regulation takes an overall approach rather than having designated smoking areas in parks.
Since park attendants don't have the authority, bylaw enforcement officers would be required to issue tickets for infractions, but the emphasis will be on peer pressure and education.
Jackson supported the bylaw amendment, but noted that an air quality alert last fall should bring some perspective.
"I guess when I look at the two side by side, this bylaw seems to be so insignificant in comparison with the overall picture," she said.
Last fall, an air quality advisory was issued for much of the Metro Vancouver region, specifically Richmond, Surrey, Langley, Pitt Meadows, Delta and New Westminster.
Conditions reportedly deteriorated due to the burning of wood stoves and fireplaces, according to the regional district.
Residents were advised to avoid lighting fires and using wood stoves and fireplaces as their main source of heat. Individuals with diabetes and lung or heart disease were advised to remain indoors and avoid strenuous exercise.
"The elevated particulate in our area was as high as it can go, so when I look at what's happening in a park with a cigarette and then when I am looking at what's happening outside in my neighbourhood, and there were a couple of other places too, we have to balance this out and make sure we're hitting the real problems with air quality and particulate matter," said Jackson.
Last fall, the Ministry of Environment released a policy update outlining proposed changes to the Solid
Fuel Burning Domestic Appliance Regulation. The proposed changes are designed to ensure only clean burning wood stoves and other wood-burning appliances are sold in B.C.
