Rotorua's air pollution is putting the health of the city's elderly and young at risk.

A recent study investigating health and air pollution in New Zealand showed that in Rotorua 22 people per year die prematurely due to poor air quality. The study was commissioned by the Health Research Council and the Ministry for the Environment.

Bill Bayfield, Environment Bay of Plenty's chief executive, says residents need to realise that they can have a huge impact on the quality of the air that their families, friends and visitors are breathing.

"Rotorua's residents are being put at risk from asthma and other respiratory problems because of the huge domestic wood burning problem we have.

"We've still got a few weeks of winter left and we're continuing to exceed the healthy emission standard set by government. We've already passed the number of times we exceeded the standard last year.

"The air quality levels in Rotorua compare to those in Christchurch where they have also been monitoring their air quality. There, every time there is poor air quality, the next day there's an increase in the number of people admitted to hospital with breathing issues. We're looking into the data for Rotorua, but can safely say it's happening here. We need to act."

Mr Bayfield says a working party of community members are completing an action plan for improving Rotorua's air quality. Actions being considered include looking at funding options to assist changing heating sources in homes, and educating the public on better firewood management.

"We're in a fortunate position where this is a reversible situation. We can do something about our air quality but it's going to take a commitment from the community. We don't want people living in cold homes, but if you do need to light your wood burning fire over the next few weeks make sure you follow good burning techniques.

"Check out the air section on the Environment Bay of Plenty website for information that will help."

ENDS

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