The Upwind Downwind Conference focuses on transboundary and local air quality issues and how land use, transportation, energy planning and public policy decisions impact air quality, human health and climate change. The conference is an important biennial networking and information forum for the exchange of research findings, community initiatives and innovative ideas from the private and public sectors to improve air quality and reduce climate change impacts.

The 2012 feature theme is unlikely partners, which explores improving air quality, health and community building with various stakeholders. Topics of focus for the day include air quality, climate change, planning, community engagement, innovation, partnerships and public health. Featured speakers include Dr. David Mowat, Medical Officer of Health with the Region of Peel; John Lewis of Intelligent Futures; Fred Eisenberger of the Canadian Urban Institute; Dr. Denis Corr and a municipal panel discussion on local airshed actions and management.