The Clean Air Strategic Alliance was a collaborative multistakeholder organization established in March 1994 by the Government of Alberta to help manage air quality issues in Alberta.  CASA was made up of representatives selected by industry, government, indigenous and non-government organizations who worked together collaboratively to advance air quality management priorities.  CASA’s vision was that “the air will have no adverse odour, taste or visual impact and have no measurable short or long-term adverse effects on people, animals or the environment.”.  Unfortunately, CASA’s operational funding grant by the Government of Alberta was terminated earlier this year. The organization was dissolved in May, 2026. 

The Clean Air Strategic Alliance (CASA) emerged as one of Canada’s most productive multi-stakeholder organizations. CASA’s policy advice and regulatory frameworks have had a lasting influence on the management of air quality in Alberta. For over thirty years, 20 member organizations have provided their expertise, their individual diverse perspectives, and their willingness to work together collaboratively.  CASA has achieved many successes over its lifespan.  In 1999, the Flaring and Venting Project received Alberta’s Emerald Foundation’s Emerald Award for Environmental Excellence.  In 2004, the Electricity project also received the Emerald Award for Environmental Excellence.  In 2005, Carleton University’s Arthur Kroeger Award for Policy Leadership was presented to CASA’s Consensus Process.  In the same year, the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) presented their Pollution Prevention Award to the Flaring and Venting Project.  In 2025, CASA’s Roadside Optical Vehicle Emissions Reporter lll (ROVER lll) earned recognition at the 34th Annual Emerald Awards for Environmental Excellence.  Many other projects of significance have been completed over the years; they have all contributed in some way to improve Alberta’s air quality.  

CASA’s website along with the reports and projects completed will be preserved and kept up to date by the Alberta Capital Airshed for at least the next 5 years, hopefully longer if possible. 

As for the future, one has to wonder: who is going to ensure CASA’s vision for Alberta’s air quality be preserved for all Albertans? 

Watch for a webinar to be held on October 15th, 2026 on the Alberta Capital Airshed to hear Ann’s presentation on CASA’s “Good Practices Guide for Odour Management in Alberta”