Indepedent Review - NSW Government Air Quality Program Fails

Monday, 10 September 2001 10:00

Total Environment Centre (TEC) Urban Campaigner Mr Leigh Martin said "Scientific research has concluded that breathing the air in Sydney poses a similar risk to smoking at least 10 cigarettes day. In addition, the young and elderly or those with respiratory ailments are at significant risk. The State Government promised to address the problem in 1998, however, our review shows that they have failed to deliver on key commitments in public transport and emission reductions".

Launched in 1998 "Action for Air" is the State Government's 25 year plan to tackle Sydney's air pollution. A major target of the strategy is to reduce car travel and increase public transport use.

Key findings of the review include:
· Levels of Ozone (the major indicator of photochemical smog) and fine particles exceed World Health Organisation and National Environment Protection Measure guidelines on a regular basis,
· Vehicle use continues to grow at alarming rates with key public transport initiatives such as the Parramatta-Chatswood Rail link seriously behind schedule,
· Programs to reduce emissions such as an inspection and maintenance program to fix polluting vehicles are lagging well behind schedule.

TEC will warn the Government at its Clean Air Forum this week that a major overhaul of "Action for Air" is needed if Sydney is ever to escape its air pollution crisis.

"The public have a right to demand clean air and effective public transport. Urgent action and increased funding are needed to bring forward major public transport initiatives and reduce emissions", Mr Martin said.