Scientists are assessing the impacts of Auckland's southern
motorway on air quality in a surrounding neighbourhood in an
effort to pinpoint health danger points.
National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa)
scientists from April to August gathered air quality data in
Otahuhu by car, bike, lampposts (with sampling tubes
attached) and air quality monitoring stations.
They were also comparing wood smoke with traffic emissions.
"We chose a 1km radius site in Otahuhu. It's a flat
neighbourhood which allows us to concentrate on the effects
of dispersion, and it's a very typical New Zealand layout,
with small sections and low density houses -- it means that
we can apply our results to other locations across New
Zealand," Niwa air quality scientist Dr Ian Longley said.
"Woody Pattinson, a Canterbury University PhD student, became
part of this living, breathing reality, experiment as he
rented a house in the area and monitored the outdoor and
indoor air quality of his surroundings."
The research aimed to discover ways of reducing the number of
people exposed to health-endangering concentrations of air
pollution close to motorways.
Poor air quality could have serious long-term health effects
for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as
chronic bronchitis, asthma and cardiovascular conditions.
"International research shows that the impact of major roads
is significant up to 100 or 200m distance, and possibly
further," Dr Longley said.
"These findings will help clarify and identify locations
where the impacts of transport emissions are significant."
The data was being analysed and results would be available in
early 2012.
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