Effect of Clean Air Act

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 33092, 6 December 1972, Page 2

Effect of Clean Air Act

(N-Z. Press Association)

AUCKLAND, Dec. 5.

The time was approaching when manysmall industries would have to go out of business or stand to lose two to three years profits to meet requirements of the Clean Air Act, 1972, said the Health Department’s regional chemical engineer (Mr IN. G. Thom) today.

"We cannot be tolerant indefinitely with those who continue to pollute the environment.” he told 70 en-

gineers from throughout the North Island at a pollution seminar at Auckland University. Mr Thom was explaining the act, due to come into force on April 1 next. He called it “a sweeping act” jn that it applied to all premises, including households. The basic obligation of the act was aimed at industry to contain, control, and disperse fumes.

“It goes down to the smallest air burner capable of a heat release of as little as lOOKw,” he said. “For some small process plants it could mean they might have to move out of urban areas if they are to comply with the act"

Mr Thom urged local authorities to become familiar quickly with the legislation. The act provided for the establishment of a Clean Air Council, with a watchdog brief to keep an eye on local bodies, industry, and the interests of the public. He said he looked to the council “to put the boot into local authorities to get them to learn what is involved." Trained experts were available, but it was disappointing to see that some authorities were not yet making use of them.

After April 1, there might still be people going to their local authority seeking advice or a licence, but instead getting a totally negative response.