Environment Canterbury has been monitoring air quality in Canterbury for a number of years. We have been concerned about the levels of PM10 within the smoke emissions.

PM10 is made up of airborne particles produced when solid fuel is burned. 80 % of it comes from home heating. These particles are breathed in easily but then can become trapped in the airways and lungs causing irritation and inflammation. This can:          

• Damage the lungs                                
• Cause shortness of breath and laboured breathing     
• Cause chest pain and nausea     
• Aggravate asthma and increase the likelihood of suffering from it          
• Increase hospital admissions for lung and heart disease                            
• Increase the number of deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular disease                            
• Shorten life expectancy for those affected.          

• Pollution > Pollution Issues
• Air Quality > Pollution Forecasts