Air pollution is a considerable concern for the members of TARA and we have devoted much time to researching the issue and lobbying responsible authorities, including BANE, the Environment Agency, the European Commission and the European Parliament, to take action.
We have been very disappointed by the response we have had from BANES and the lack of action by successive administrations to address the problem or even take it very seriously.
The following summary table, published by Camden council, shows why this issue needs to be taken seriously and needs to be addressed with urgency.
Health effects and sources of air pollutants
|
Pollutant
|
Sources
|
Health effects
|
|---|---|---|
|
Nitrogen dioxide
|
Road transport (especially diesel vehicles), domestic boilers, power stations and industry
|
Lung irritation and damage
|
|
Sulphur dioxide
|
Power stations, domestic boilers, industry
|
Coughing, irritation and narrowing of airways. Can make asthma and bronchitis worse
|
|
Carbon monoxide
|
Petrol vehicles, domestic boilers, industry
|
Deprives the blood of oxygen and can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea. Can lead to death at very high levels
|
|
Fine Particulates (PM10 and PM2.5)
|
Road transport (mainly diesel vehicles and tyre and break wears), power stations, domestic boilers
|
Increased chances of respiratory disease, lung damage, cancer and premature death
|
|
Ozone
|
Produced when sunlight reacts with vehicle exhaust fumes
|
Irritation to eyes, nose and throat. Can damage lungs and airways
|
|
Benzene
|
Petrol vehicles
|
Long term exposure can increase risk of cancer
|
|
Lead
|
Petrol vehicles, industry
|
Learning disabilities and brain and kidney damage
|
Air pollution can also damage trees, plants and buildings and contribute to climate change.