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Air quality

 

Air Quality Logo

 

What is air quality and why does it matter to me?
Air quality is a measure of how good our air quality is in terms of the type and quantity of pollutants contained within it.  Air is polluted if it contains substances that may have a harmful effect on human health and the environment.  Poor air quality can affect peoples’ health, causing problems such as heart disease and breathing problems. Up to 24,000 people per year die prematurely because of its effects (source: The Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, Working Together for Clean Air.)

What is the council doing to ensure that my air is fit to breathe?
Central Government has published a National Air Quality Strategy that sets air quality objectives with the aim of improving and protecting the quality of air we breathe.  A network of air pollution monitors, along with the use of computer models, have enabled us to carry out detailed assessments of air quality in Warrington. These have found that air quality is generally very good. We have, however, identified a need to tackle emissions associated with motor vehicles along the busiest roads and motorway network. This resulted in the legal designation of two Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs).  The creation of these areas enables us to develop policies designed to protect our air quality. These are reported in the annual reviews and assessments, available in the reports section. 

What can I do to improve local air quality?

  • Don’t use the car for short journeys 
  • Join a car share scheme if possible 
  • Use public transport whenever possible 
  • Ask your employer about working from home 
  • Cycle to work if possible 
  • Walk whenever you can 
  • Insulate your property and use energy efficiently 
  • Inform the council of any pollution incidents in your area.

What are our aims?

  • Support the achievement of the National Air Quality Objectives
  • Maintain and where practical improve local air quality 
  • Work together to manage our air quality
  • Take cost effective actions
  • Raise awareness on air quality and its role in achieving a sustainable environment.

Further information is available on:

How do I contact you?
To contact us direct about air quality:

Tel: 01925 442590, email: dwatson@warrington.gov.uk
Alternatively, you can write to us at:
Air Quality Management, Community Services Directorate, Palmyra House, Palmyra Square North, Warrington, WA1 1JN



Last updated 10/12/2009 12:48:13


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