By September 5, users of the Société de transport de Laval (STL) will be able to take the bus for only $1 the day after smog days.

This special rate on the entire STL network represents a reduction of more than 70% on the price of a regular passage, according to the public carrier.

Through this unique initiative in Canada, the STL aims to encourage the use of public transit with a view to reducing the number of cars on the roads, which are partly responsible for air pollution.

“The smog alert initiative is a source of great pride for the STL and Laval residents. Public transit plays a key role in the fight against climate change,” said Jocelyne Frédéric-Gauthier, chair of the STL board of directors, on Wednesday.

“If more people travel by bus, especially during smog episodes, we can improve air quality together,” added Ms. Frédéric-Gauthier.

In the event of a smog alert, the STL undertakes to issue a special bulletin to public transit users to keep them informed.