Pollution Monitoring Project in Camden

Overview

• Recent pollution monitoring project conducted across Camden by various groups, including the Green Party and local councillors.
• Increased number of pollution monitoring tubes installed on lampposts throughout the borough.
• Gathering results to understand pollution levels in detail.

Key Findings

• Current Pollution Levels:

  • Kentish Town High Street: nearly 100 micrograms/m³ of nitrogen dioxide.
  • This reading is 2.5 times the legal limit.

• Sources of Pollution:

  • Diesel cars contribute significantly more to smog than petrol cars.
  • High volumes of buses and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) on busy routes exacerbate the problem.
  • Pollution is not solely from continental flow; local traffic and vehicle types are major contributors.

Health Impact

• Air pollution is a significant public health issue in London.
• Researchers estimate that nearly 9,500 Londoners die prematurely each year due to pollution-related issues.
• Legal limits for air pollution are not considered safe limits.

Conclusion

• Urgent need for measures to reduce traffic and alter the types of vehicles on the roads to address air pollution issues.
• Recognized as a public health emergency that must be addressed.