For more than a decade, clean air has been the top environmental priority for Canterbury people.  Air quality has improved in Christchurch over recent years as people have switched to cleaner forms of heating. Now it is set to get even better as new rules for open fires and solid fuel burners take effect from 1 April 2010.

From 2010, only approved burners less than 15 years old can be used between 1 April and 30 September in Christchurch Clean Air Zone 1.

This means if you depend on a wood or coal burner more than 15 years old to heat your home, you will need to replace it - or install a cleaner form of heating.  If you’re not sure how old your burner is, follow this link: http://www.ecan.govt.nz/WoodburnerAge/  Act now and get ready for winter 2010!

PANDEMIC UPDATE

In its role as a member of the Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Group, Environment Canterbury is working closely with the relevant health and local authorities regarding the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic.  For more information see http://www.fluinfo.org.nz/  or visit the Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Group website.