A night of clean air?
A night aimed at raising awareness around harmful air pollution and burning solid fuels is taking place tomorrow, Friday.
Cork City Council is asking city residents to play a part in reducing air pollution on Clean Air Night by reducing solid fuel burning in their stoves or fireplaces, or by lighting fires a little later in the evening.
A spokesperson for Cork City Council said: “Each winter, air quality issues come to the fore for residents of Cork city.
“During this time, the annual increase in the burning of fossil fuels in Cork homes, compounded by winter atmospheric conditions, combines to negatively affect the air quality in the
city.
“By making small changes, we can all help work towards improving air quality. Cork City Council is inviting city residents to participate in reducing air pollution on Clean Air Night, Friday 24 January, by reducing solid fuel burning in their stoves or fireplaces, or by lighting fires a little later in the evening.”
Burning solid fuels like coal, peat, briquettes, and wood releases pollutants into the air both inside and outside our homes.
Data from the European Environment Agency shows air pollution can have negative impacts on our health, especially our lungs and hearts, with air pollution contributing to 1,600 premature deaths in Ireland annually.
The spokesperson added: “Cork City Council has outlined seven themes in its City Air Quality Strategy, under which improvements are being progressed to contribute to overall healthier air in the Cork city area.”
The spokesperson also said the council is cognisant of the issues surrounding energy poverty and is aware that some households may need to light their fires or stoves for heating purposes, especially during cold periods.
“Many residents rely on solid fuel to maintain adequate levels of heat in their homes.
“Participation in Clean Air Night is completely voluntary and is part of ongoing initiatives to raise awareness about the wider health issues of air pollution,” the spokesperson concluded.