Northern Ireland air quality continues to improve

Air quality levels in Northern Ireland are continuing to improve a Department of the Environment report revealed today.

The Northern Ireland Air Quality Monitoring Report, prepared by the DOE in partnership with District Councils, provides details of air quality monitoring, a summary of results, long term trends and information on progress being made by councils in managing local air quality.

Environment Minister Sammy Wilson said:

“The link between air quality and health is well known. Clean air is essential for our health and well-being. By reducing air pollution, we can reduce illness and premature death.

“I am pleased to report, therefore, that overall, air quality continues to improve and is good for the vast majority of the time in Northern Ireland.

“My department continues to support actions to improve local air quality. In 2007/08 £635,000 of funding was provided to District Councils under the Local Air Quality Management grant scheme.”

Monitoring occurred at 33 automated sites across Northern Ireland with only three sites within two district council areas reporting levels above our quality monitoring standards.

Elevated levels of fine particles and nitrogen dioxide were reported at monitoring sites in Belfast and Newry. Action plans to improve air quality in these areas are being implemented by the relevant councils under the provisions of the Environment (NI) Order 2002.

Notes to Editors:

1. Results from all the air quality monitoring sites as well as further information on air quality monitoring and air quality management in Northern Ireland is available here
2. Additional copies of the report can be obtained from DOE, Planning and Environmental Policy Group, 20-24 Donegall Street, Belfast BT1 2GP Tel: 028 9054 4565. The report is also available in electronic format
3. Further information on air quality monitoring and air quality management in Northern Ireland is available here
4. For media enquiries please contact DOE Press Office 028 9054 0014 or out of office hours, contact the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.