Air pollution

Press, 15 August 1980, Page 12

Air pollution

Sir, — E. Day (August 13) denies the Clean Air Society credit for its wide range of activities against all forms of air pollution including noise. The Society has consistently advocated the use of solid smokeless fuel for the use of those who wish to retain existing domestic appliances. In May, 1971, we co-operated with the Gas Company in promoting the sale of coke for domestic appliances.' This major advertising campaign under the slogan “don’t make smoke, burn coke” had a special illustration of an open fire with suitable instructions and the whole text was signed and approved 'by me (copy enclosed). The initial clearance of the London smog was due mainly to the use of solid smokeless fuel on the domestic hearth. We state as a natural fact that bituminous coal-fed open fires produce copious quantities of smoke. — Yours, etc., P. V. NEARY, President. New Zealand Clean Air Soc. Inc. August 13, 1980. Sir, — I thank the Deputy Medical Officer of Health and Dr J. McLeod for their answers to Maureen Hoare’s question on ways to combat air pollution while riding a bicycle (August 11). I find it a sad statement on our quality of living' that the only satisfactory means of avoiding the effects of air pollution is to stay off a bicycle and to stay indoors. I am not advocating the development of beter masks for cyclists; masks treat only symptoms and not causes. What I would like to see is a city-wide ban on burning high sulphur-content coal in open fires, as this is the main cause of sulphur oxide pollution. A ban on private cars in the inner city, and a reduction in the amount of lead in petrol, would also be welcomed. I fail to understand why joggers and cyclists should have to suffer the consequence of their fellow citizens’ inconsiderate actions. —Yours, etc., HELEN CRABB. August 13, 1980.