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Project Code [2010-AQ-MS-1]

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Project title

Evaluation of the effect of domestic solid fuel burning on ambient air quality in Ireland

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT)

Lead Applicant

Patrick Goodman

Project Abstract

DIT in partnership with DCC are proposing to conduct a detailed literature review of ambient air quality in Ireland, with particular emphasis on the relationship to domestic coal usage. This will build on our track record of published research in this area. Building on our experience of running an ISO9001 monitoring network (DCC) we propose to conduct field monitoring at four centers, to inform on the relationships between fuel usage and ambient air quality. These will be Tralee (coal ban, no natural gas), Killarney and Letterkenny (no coal ban, no natural gas), and Navan (no ban, has natural gas) which have been selected to allow the evaluation of coal usage, the availability of natural gas and the presence/absence of a coal ban. All centers have a population of 15,000 or more. Data from these will be compared with that from the existing monitoring networks over the same time period, and with historical records. We propose to measure PM10, PM2.5, Black smoke, and to undertake a chemical analysis of the samples, to measure BaP and other PAhs. A detailed report, taking account of EU and National policy, with conclusions and recommendations will be provided for policy makers. conduct a state of the art literature review on the impact of domestic solid fuel usage on air quality in Ireland, with emphasis on coal usage. Undertake the measurement of ambient PM10, PM2.5 and Black smoke at 4 centres over a 12 month period. Production of a database of all the measurements made, including the chemical analysis Conduct analysis of the PAHs present on the particulate filters, with emphasis on BaP levels. Compare data from this study, with data from the existing monitoring networks Produce a final report on the impact of domestic solid fuel usage on air quality

Grant Approved

�143,630.08

Research Hub

Healthy Environment

Research Theme

Environment and Human Health

Start Date

17/01/2011

Initial Projected Completion Date

17/07/2012