What we have done under Stage 1 of the National Air Quality Standards

Monitoring procedures

We have been involved in the routine monitoring of airborne pollution at strategic sites for a number of years. Concern over airborne pollution in the environment has increased in recent years and the activities of the Council have reflected this. 

Table 2 Emissions from road traffic

The major source of airborne pollution in an urban environment such as Hammersmith and Fulham is from road traffic. Table 2 shows the amount of certain pollutants resulting from traffic flows across London as a whole. Other sources of pollution include industrial processes.

We have been actively monitoring two pollutants, Nitrogen Dioxide and Benzene, using diffusion tubes for a number of years. This system provides average concentrations over a period of time, which permits the ability to establish trends and identify those areas of the borough where high levels occur or can be expected to occur. The sites were chosen to provide a general picture of ambient levels across the borough. Currently there are seven sites, five measure both nitrogen dioxide and benzene and two which measure nitrogen dioxide only. Map 4 shows the location of the sites in the borough. Exact site locations are given in Table 3 below. 

We also measure for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are a large group of organic compounds associated with emissions from motor vehicles. Measuring takes place twice a year for a period of two weeks. PAHs are currently not identified in the NAQS however the current review of the strategy may include further pollutants such as PAHs. By assessing levels of pollutants currently not included in the strategy the Council will be able to draw a more conclusive picture of the quality of the air in the borough.

We also participate in a London wide Tree Health survey. The survey looks at the effect of air pollution on tree health. There are four sites in the borough which are visited on an annual basis. Results demonstrate a link between poor tree health and the location of trees close to busy roads. This survey is a visible demonstration of the effect of poor air on the environment.

With regard to the NAQS we have installed an Air Quality station at Hammersmith Broadway. This station continuously monitors for NO2 and for PM10s (fine particles). The station is able to provide real time data and highlight pollution episodes as they occur. The station is located close to a busy road and will provide essential information in helping to understand the levels of pollution in the borough.

Table 3 Diffusion Tube Monitoring Sites

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