Minutes:
Bill Leggasick, Principal Environment Officer presented this item.
Air quality affects us all in our daily lives and we breath in pollution from a variety of sources which cause health effects. As part of reviewing and assessing air pollution the process which identifies all pollutant concentration objectives were met in Southwark with the exception of NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) and PM10 (particulate matters) dust particles. The air quality map in 2002 shows high levels around Elephant and Castle and Camberwell. This is being addressed through the Council’s air quality strategy and improvement plan which is now being updated. The London Mayor has also come out with their air quality strategy emphasising the importance of reducing emissions from vehicular transport and protect public health and monitor air quality.
The main objectives to improve air quality:
· To tackle carbon emissions – transport sources i.e. pollution coming out of diesel engines.
· To protect public health and monitor air quality.
· To reduce emissions from new development.
People were encouraged to go online so their views could be heard or email: environment@southwark.gov.uk or telephone 0207 525 2000. The period of consultation was between the 1 March until 20 April 2011