Ireland’s air quality is under threat from two main culprits: burning solid fuels at home and road traffic, according to the latest report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The EPA’s Air Quality in Ireland 2023 report, which analyzed data from 115 monitoring stations across the country, reveals a mixed bag of results. While Ireland managed to meet current EU air quality limits, it fell short of the stricter World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.
The government’s Clean Air Strategy aims to meet interim WHO guideline limits by 2026, but the EPA warns this goal is now “very challenging” to achieve.
Dr Micheál Lehane, EPA Director, emphasized that air pollution isn’t just a city problem. “There are negative impacts in towns and villages right across the country,” he said.
The main villains in this air quality drama are fine particulate matter from burning wood and coal, and nitrogen dioxide from vehicle emissions. These pollutants can cause serious health issues, with the EPA estimating that poor air quality contributes to about 1,600 premature deaths in Ireland each year.
To clear the air, the EPA suggests some simple steps:
- Use less solid fuel and opt for cleaner alternatives to heat homes
- Reduce car use and support public transport
- Promote active travel with better footpaths and cycle lanes
Roni Hawe, EPA Programme Manager, highlighted the importance of residential retrofit programmes in reducing pollution. She also called for stricter enforcement of solid fuel regulations, urging local authorities to ensure only approved fuels are sold to households.
According to The Journal, while Ireland’s air quality compares favorably with many European neighbors, there’s still work to be done to achieve truly clean air for everyone, everywhere, all year round.