1 minute read

arrowtown village association news

from The Loop Arrowtown – Edition 235

from The Loop Arrowtown – Edition 235, page 5

the meaning

Air Pollution

Whilst Arrowtown is known for its beautifully preserved historic, aesthetic, it’s autumn colour and stunning natural surroundings, it is also has a less favourable reputation, that of winter air pollution caused by inefficient wood burners and unsuitable firewood.

Being nestled against Tobins face as we are, our geography prevents smoke from clearing effectively and instead it settles, particularly to the east, below Devon Street and over the river. You need only step outside for a moment or welcome your cat in from the evening cold, to sense the linger of smoke on your clothes and their fur.

The data also backs up what we can all sense around us, PM10 smoke particles peak overnight which indicates home heating is the major cause. PM10 particles are smaller than 10 micrometers (µm) in diameter and can result in a number of health impacts including respiratory diseases, heart attacks, and lung cancer. PM10 levels ≥50 µg/m³ on a 24-hour average breach National standards, which in June was exceeded on 8 days in Arrowtown. Exceeding these levels has been a regular occurrence in Arrowtown for many years.

What can you do?

To help lower PM10 particles, firewood must be dry and burned hot without smouldering. For information on firewood storage and use visit www.orc.govt.nz/bdbe. AVA also has wood moisture meters which can be borrowed for a $20 returnable deposit, please contact chairperson@arrowtownvillage.nz to check your wood pile. Please inform your neighbours if you regularly see smoke coming from their chimney’s or you can report excessive pollution to pollution@orc.govt. nz / 0800800033.

To learn more and view the air quality data for Arrowtown visit www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/otago-region/air-quality/arrowtown/ arrowtown .

– AVA Chairperson