| Abstrakt: |
Since closure of BHP Rod and Bar in late 1999, the former industrial city of Newcastle, NSW has a new economic and air quality lease on life. Residents enjoy cleaner air, and particle matter measurements (PM) at different size ranges (dust depostion, PM 10, PM2.5) show greatly reduced concentrations. For the vast majority of the time, annual and daily PM 10 and PM2.5 meet National Environmental Protection Measure standards or guidelines. However, concern about PM emissions from Coal Chain activites, associated with the world's largest export port for coal, has created a perception of continuing air quality problems that could affect the health of residents. This discussion presents the air quality measurements for the period 2000-2013 for PM, with a focus on PM10 and PM2.5, for Newcastle. Assessment of PM10 and PM2.5 sources and emissions inventories show coal activities, fertiliser manufacture, and residental wood burning in winter are the major sources, but there are important differences between inventory results. Included is an extended discussion of the perceptions from residents, based on media and other source material. Community groups are no longer willing to accept NEPM standards as a safeguard to a healthy atmosphere. Compared to previous decades, the community has become directly involved in PM measurement, data analysis, and interpretation. This has created changes in the way decisions are made about PM sources and emissions, and a demand for better emissions control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
