New air quality initiative proposed for Port Talbot

Port Talbot in Wales is set to become the focus of a new initiative to tackle air pollution following a report on air quality in the area.

An independent study was commissioned by the Welsh environment minister to find the source of high levels of PM10 emissions.

PM10 are tiny, airborne particles which have been linked to a number of illnesses, including respiratory disease, cardiopulmonary disease and lung cancer.

The report discovered that the most likely cause of the pollution in Port Talbot was a steelworks site.

Commenting on the research, environment minister Jane Davidson said: "Recent figures into pollution in Wales showed that our air is cleaner in overall terms than at any time since the industrial revolution. However, we recognise there is a particular issue in Port Talbot."

She added that the government would continue to work closely with local businesses and the Environment Agency to remedy the situation.

In addition to providing data relating to emissions levels, experts from the Air Quality Management Resource Centre also provided guidance on future methods for locating the source of PM10 pollution.

These included creating an emissions database and carrying out a range of new surveys, as well as updating the local authority air quality action plan.

Posted by Claire Manning