Environment Canterbury has been monitoring air quality in Canterbury for a number of years. We have been concerned about the levels of PM 10 within the smoke emissions.

PM 10 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