Delivering dependable air quality science to Newcastle communities

Four–year review of the Newcastle Local Air Quality Monitoring Network

This document discusses the findings of the Newcastle Local Air Quality Monitoring Network four-year review following the initial four years of operation. The review considered whether the Newcastle Local monitoring program met its objectives and was run efficiently and cost-effectively. It also assessed any need for improvements and consideration of any other related matters.

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Date
6 May 2019
Publisher
Office of Environment and Heritage
Type
Publication, Report
Cost
Free
Language
English
Tags
  • ISBN 978-1-925755-72-5
  • ID OEH20190143
  • File PDF 2.4MB
  • Pages 58
  • Name delivering-dependable-air-quality-science-newcastle-190143.pdf

The Newcastle Local Air Quality Monitoring Network was established to provide government, industry and the community with credible, reliable and up-to-date information about air quality and trends in air quality within the Port of Newcastle.

This report, by OEH on behalf of the EPA, is the first review of the Newcastle Local Air Quality Monitoring Network, covering the initial years of operation from August 2014 to December 2017.

The review concluded that:

  • The extensive data collected by the Network have provided a better understanding of the air quality and meteorology within the Port of Newcastle and inner-city suburbs.
  • The objectives of the monitoring program are being met, providing stakeholders with reliable and up-to-date Network data which are regularly assessed against air quality standards.
  • Sources of pollution impacting the Port of Newcastle area continue to be identified. The air quality data and emerging trends provide community and policy investigators with a growing evidence base for developing and implementing strategies to improve air quality in the region.
  • The Network runs efficiently and cost-effectively.
  • The minimal change in population distribution, emission sources, topography and meteorology since 2014, validates maintaining the original network design.