Air rules aim to protect health in Ashburton

The new air rules that will take effect in Ashburton from May 2011 are designed to help the town meet the standard for air quality that has been introduced by central government. Environment Canterbury has a statutory obligation to ensure the standard is achieved. The Ashburton air rules are similar to those being introduced in a number of Canterbury towns and cities, Environment Canterbury commissioner David Bedford said.

“Air pollution increases the incidence of respiratory and other health problems. This winter Ashburton air quality has already exceeded the health-based standard 10 times.

“Research shows that more than 80% of winter air pollution in Ashburton comes from home heating, and the new rules, which apply from May 2011, are designed to improve air quality.”

The health-based National Environmental Standard on air quality, which is currently being reviewed by central government proposes allowing Ashburton and other Canterbury towns no more than three high pollution nights per annum , Mr Bedford said.

“Since we started continuous monitoring air quality in Ashburton in 2005, there have been between 13 and 25 air quality breaches each year.”

The clean air rules have been put in place by Environment Canterbury following consultation with the community, including a joint community advisory group with the Ashburton District Council. Public submissions on the proposed rules were invited in August 2008, and a hearing took place in Ashburton in April 2009. There were no appeals when the decisions were released in 2009.

There may be consequences for businesses in Canterbury towns if there are more pollution nights than the standard permits, Mr Bedford said.

“The current standard would become an obstacle for new industrial or commercial activities that add to air pollution in Ashburton, as new resource consents could not be issued and existing consents may not be renewed.”

Mr Bedford said the majority of pollution comes from home heating. “Reducing smoky fires by introducing restrictions on the use of open fires and older burners has been shown in Christchurch to reduce air pollution.

“It is widely accepted that burners have a definite lifespan and even with the best of care they become less efficient and more polluting as they get older. The way they are operated is also important.

“This is an initiative aimed at improving health by providing clean air for all people to breathe. I am sure that this is a goal that will be shared by most people in Ashburton.”