In addition to lead (Pb) contributions from historical use of products such as lead-based paint and leaded gasoline, Trail is home to one of the world’s largest Pb and zinc smelting and refining facilities, in operation for over one hundred years. Dust particles present in smelter emissions contain Pb. During operations, these particles can settle on surfaces in the Trail area as part of the dust and soil.

The amount of Pb currently contained in Teck’s stack emissions is low. Although fugitive dust emissions (see additional FAQ for definition) have also been significantly reduced, the main focus for further lowering lead levels in the Trail area remains on these fugitive dust emissions from onsite materials handling and vehicle traffic.

Continuous improvement is a key component of Teck Trail Operations Environmental Management System (ISO14001). Measurements of Pb in airborne dust help to understand levels of Pb in the community and inform environmental improvements.