18 June 2008
Eastbourne Borough Council and the University of Brighton have entered into an innovative partnership to monitor air quality in Eastbourne from a site located at the Community Centre in Willingdon Trees.
The Council and University will use the data to get a clearer understanding of what levels of fine particulates are in the Borough and the likely origin.
Fine particulates can come from a variety of sources including industrial processes, vehicle exhausts, combustion processes and natural sources such as sea salt and even Saharan dust!
The Council already monitors particulates, Ozone and Nitrogen Dioxide at an air monitoring station near the Congress Theatre and in addition monitors Nitrogen Dioxide at a further 26 roadside locations in the town. The additional fine particulate monitor will enhance the air monitoring programme and provide further detailed information on fine particulates and their source.
Leader of the Borough Council, Councillor David Tutt says “This is a really positive step and will provide data for the Council to get a clearer understanding of levels of fine particulates in the town and their likely origin. It will ensure we have the right information upon which we can then act to protect and maintain Eastbourne’s exceptional environment.”
Dr Smallbone says “In addition to the local benefits, the University of Brighton will be able to get a clearer idea of the bigger picture when it comes to understanding the distribution of fine particulates across the town, South East England and Northern Europe”.
For more details please contact Paul Quanstrom, Health and Environment Manager, Eastbourne Borough Council on 01323 415375.
