Timaru’s air pollution levels have exceeded environment standards for the 13th time this year.
Environment Canterbury’s monitoring station at Anzac Square in Timaru recorded a 24-hour average PM10 concentration of 57 micrograms on June 29.
A reading over 50 micrograms of suspended particulate per cubic metre of air indicates “high” pollution under the national environmental standard.
PM10 refers to particulate matter in the air that is smaller than 10 micrometres in diameter. PM10 particles are so small that they can get into the lungs, potentially causing serious health problems.
All but two of the breaches in Timaru so far this year happened in June. The highest reading of the year was 74 micrograms, which was recorded on June 17.
Timaru had 12 high pollution days by June 30 last year. Since 1999, there have been anywhere between seven and 23 days of high pollution by the same day.
So far this year, the Timaru station has recorded the most high pollution days of all centres monitored by the regional council.
Rangiora has had four high pollution days, while Christchurch has had three and Ashburton has had two. In common with Geraldine, the Washdyke station has recorded one breach this year.
Three main sources of PM10 are home heating, industry and vehicles, from the combustion of fuels such as wood, coal, petrol and diesel.
On a typical winter day in Timaru, an estimated 88 per cent of emissions come from home heating, Environment Canterbury said.
Timaru has an air standard compliance target of three high pollution days from September 1.
Source: Timaru Herald
