Cars and solid fuel causing smog

A report before tomorrow's Environmental Services meeting suggests how we can all help reduce air pollution in the city, which is potentially harmful to the elderly, children and people with chronic chest problems.

Remarkably, it suggests those sensitive to high levels of pollution "may wish to reduce the time they spend outdoors or avoid busy, congested streets" and "if symptoms persist, affected people should consult with their doctor."

The report is a reaction to high levels of localised air pollution over the Christmas period in Londonderry.

The Department of Environment (DoE) provided the Council's Chief Environmental Health Officer with details of the smog spike in Londonderry over December 18-19.

The DoE said the localised air pollution was likely have been associated with the build up of emissions from vehicles and home heating during the calm, cold weather conditions.

It acknowledged that during periods of high pollution the symptoms of people with lung or heart disease may worsen. Although, healthy people are unlikely to experience any ill effects.

Consequently, the DoE and Derry City Council are advising how we can all take action to reduce the potentially health-harming levels of pollution here.

In a report before tomorrow's meeting the Chief Environmental Health Officer states: "We can all contribute to reducing the current high levels by avoiding burning solid fuels if possible, by burning only smokeless fuels in smoke control areas. It is also important to avoid lighting bonfires while pollution levels are high."

The report continues: "Road vehicles are a major source of many pollutants in urban areas. Before using your car ask yourself - do I really need to make this journey? Do I really need to use the car, or could I walk or cycle?

"If you must drive, switch off the engine if you expect to be stationary for more than a couple of minutes, and drive smoothly - it will save you fuel and money and you will emit less pollution."

In the past smog-levels at the densely populated Dale's Corner junction in the Waterside resulted in it being recommended as a special Air Quality Management Area (AQMA).

Increased levels of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) have been found at the busy junction over recent years.

Research suggests long-term exposure to NO2 may decrease lung function and increase the risk of respiratory symptoms.

Equally, in recent years the Sentinel has reported on residents of Londonderry and Dungiven who have blamed pollution levels for inducing asthma and chronic chest problems.