Clean Air Acts were introduced to combat this problem. Today emissions from industry are closely monitored and controlled. However, pollution from the growing number of motor vehicles using our roads provides the greatest threat to air quality.
Harmful vehicle emissions contribute to breathing and lung problems in susceptible people, and contribute to greenhouse gases which cause climate change.
The council is committed to using cleaner fuels in all vehicles, which will substantially reduce the amount of harmful emissions from Council vehicles. Emissions of nitrogen oxides, particulates and carbon dioxide should all be reduced.
The Environmental Health Department's main duties are to:
- Regulate emissions to air from industry
- Monitor and assess air quality
Control of industrial emissions
Emissions to air from industry are regulated under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and Clean Air Acts. These Acts require that certain industrial and commercial premises are authorised. This allows officers to inspect and control emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere.
Information on these processes is kept on a Public Register at Stopford House which includes details on process emissions and operations. If you wish to view the Register, it is advisable to make an appointment.
Air quality strategy
The results from Stockport's extensive monitoring network have been used to review and assess air quality within the Borough. Areas thought likely to exceed Government guideline levels by 2005 and 2010 have been identified using monitoring and computer model predictions.
The results show that only nitrogen dioxide and particulates are likely to have exceedances. Predicted exceedances in Stockport are found along the busiest roads.
Where air quality targets are likely to be exceeded, the council must, after consultation, declare Air Quality Management Areas.
Air quality today
BBC Ceefax: Page 417, ITV Teletext: Page 156
For detailed daily air quality levels for Stockport and Greater Manchester see 'Great Air Manchester' in 'Related Links' on the right of the page.