Public Health

Whatever the figures bandied about, it is indisputable that the development will result in a major increase in traffic in and around the city which will result in significantly elevated levels of airborne pollution. Children and the elderly as well as asthma sufferers and those with cardio-vascular problems are particularly at increased risk.

Links

• Thematic Strategy on Air Pollution - This easy to digest 13 page Sept 2005 report is a 'Communication of the Commission of the European Communities to the Council and the European Parliament' - well worth a read to find out more about air pollution - 200KB (small!) pdf file
• Transport contribution to air quality - This 19 page Sept 2003 report from the European Environment Agency reports that the decrease in pollutants from traffic due to technological and fuel quality improvements is being offset by the increase in the number and size of vehicles. A brief summary of the report.
• CAFE - The EU Commission Clean Air for Europe programme. You will find lots of facts, figures and reports on EU policy and directives relating to air pollution here.
• This Green Party press release from 7th Aug 06 reveals Lancaster Council's ongoing failures to meet DEFRA targets regarding Air Quality Management in Lancaster.
• 26 Jan 2007 - New Scientist article 'Traffic exposure disrupts teen lung development'
• The government Air Quality Strategy published in 2000, is a requirement of the EU Air Quality Framework Directive and describes the plans drawn up by the government and the devolved administrations to improve and protect ambient air quality in the UK in the medium-term. Their proposals aim to protect people’s health and the environment without imposing unacceptable economic or social costs and form an essential part of government strategy for sustainable development.