Air Pollution Monitoring

Last December (2019) we placed a number of ‘diffusion tubes’ around Slattocks to monitor Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2).
These tubes only give an average reading over the time they are in place.

A diffusion Tube (arrowed) in place locally

See the results of this project by clicking here

We did this in conjunction with the British Lung Foundation (BLF). They are keen to raise awareness about the affects of air pollution on us all.

Now we’ve installed a more sophisticated air quality monitor – the Zephyr by Earthsense .

Gerard Skelly said:

“Living on a busy main road I think it’s so important that I’ve got access to the Green Belt for fresh air and exercise

” I want the Government to make tougher laws to reduce the levels of pollution”

“I’m very happy to ‘do my bit’ to help monitor air quality in the area”

Gordon Tilstone, Chair of TSJNF and Slattocks resident Gerard Skelly withthe Zephyr monitor installed behind them

Further information on the BLF’s work can be found here: British Lung Foundation

Air Quality Monitoring

You may remember we put up Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) monitoring tubes around the area in November last year (2019).
NO2 is one of the air-borne pollutants in vehicle emissions and is known to cause health problems

Exposure to high pollution episodes can cause immediate harm to everyone by:
– Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
– Wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and breathing difficulties
– Worsening of existing lung and heart problems, such as asthma.
As the heart, lungs and blood cells pump oxygen to every part of the body, they also come into contact and carry along toxic pollutants like NO2 and other noxious air-borne particulates.
The body must therefore work harder to supply oxygen and overcome the effects of these chemicals, causing the above symptoms.

This is where the tubes were located

And the results we got were:

1 40.85
2 37.76
3 25.75
4 32.58
5 33.56

According current regulations the exposure limit to NO2 is 40 ug/m3 (micrograms per metre cubed).

So one result is over the recommended limit

Not surprisingly, the monitor tube at St Johns School gave the lowest result, given that it’s furthest away from traffic on the main road.

Whilst the results are somewhat surprising we will soon be able to get a more accurate result using a more sophisticated air quality monitor, pictured below, which ‘tests’ for a wider range of substances.
The British Lung Foundation (BLF) who are supplying the new monitor are also keen to do further work with us around the health & clean air issues.

. Image: EarthSense.co.uk

Further information on air quality and Nitrogen Dioxide monitoring can be found at these links:
Air Quality Expert Group: Nitrogen Dioxide in the United Kingdom – Summary
Air Quality and You

A Breath of Fresh Air is Important

The need to get away from choked-up roads when we can is vital to protect our health and those of our families.

If there was ever the need to prove why local Greenbelt must be protected, then here it is.

Air Quality in Greater Manchester

But is the solution to introduce charging zones for traffic? 

Take a look at the Greater Manchester Clean Air Campaign  . The trouble with this is that it doesn’t include motorways.