1 , 500 DEATHS DUE TO AIR POLLUTION
AIR pollution causes the premature deaths of more than 1,500 Irish people every year, new research has revealed.
The European Environment Agency found much of the problem was caused by solid fuels and diesel.
The annual report estimated more than 500,000 Europeans die prematurely due to poor air quality.
Experts have warned of the use of fossil fuels such as peat, wood and coal to heat homes in Ireland.
Environmental Protection Agency director general Laura Burke said: “It has become increasingly clear there are no safe levels of pollutants. With this in mind it is time to tackle the biggest issue impacting on air Ireland – emissions from solid fuels in our small towns around the country.”
The agency said the worst offending places last year were Longford in Co Meath and Ennis, Co Clare.
But monitoring sites in Finglas, Marino, Rathmines and Coleraine Street in Dublin, Heatherton Park, Cork, quality Firefighters in Balbriggan in Claremorris, Co Mayo, and Bray, Co Wicklow, also picked up pollution levels above World Health Organisation guidelines.
The ban on smoky coal in cities is expected to be extended nationwide next year. The EPA also revealed exhaust fumes are the second biggest air quality issue.
It noted the worst level of nitrogen dioxide, which comes mainly
EPA DIRECTOR GENERAL
from vehicles, was recorded on one day in Swords, North Dublin.
The agency warned if vehicle numbers continue to rise Ireland is at risk of breaching strict European limits.
The latest air quality report said: “The continued promotion of the shift from solid fuel as a method of home heating to cleaner alternatives, is the key issue regarding particulate matter levels in Ireland and the area where there is the greatest scope for improvements in air quality.
“Priority should be given to public transport or clean transport over fossil fuel-powered motor vehicles in all aspects of society.”
It has become clear there are no safe levels of pollutants LAURA BURKE