Asthma Foundation Supports Call For Emission Tests

Asthma and Respiratory Foundation supports call for better vehicle emission testing

The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation announced today that it supports the Motor Industry Association’s call for a more stringent vehicle emission testing regime. This statement follows the Government’s proposal to test vehicle emissions by using a visual smoke check rather than setting up a more scientific and rigorous testing system.

Jane Patterson, Executive Director of the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation is concerned by the Government’s intention to compromise the quality of testing when such a wide range of people will be affected.

“The health impacts of vehicle emissions are well-known to the government. New Zealand research shows that motor vehicle pollution is responsible for 400 deaths annually, without considering the other adverse effects that it may have on the one in six Kiwis with lung diseases like asthma and COPD.

New Zealand has an aging car fleet and a high number of diesel vehicles. Vehicle testing is well overdue but the use of a subjective and unscientific method based on visual cues is unacceptable. It will not protect the vulnerable members of our population.

We urge the government to reconsider this proposal and implement a credible testing regime.”

ENDS

Notes to the Editor

One in four New Zealand children has asthma.

Asthma is the most common cause of child hospital admissions.

COPD is the 4th most common cause of death in New Zealand.

It is estimated that respiratory conditions cost New Zealand over $1 billion per year in direct and indirect costs.

Rates of asthma and COPD are expected to rise over the next two decades.

The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation of NZ (Inc.) is a non-governmental charitable organisation that provides education, information, advocacy and research on asthma and other respiratory conditions.

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