The air quality index (AQI) is a measurement used by government agencies to communicate air pollution levels to the public. A higher AQI indicates a higher level of air pollution and greater health concerns.
The AQI in Bathurst is generally good, with values typically ranging from 0 to 50. According to NSW Environment Protection Authority data, the annual average AQI for Bathurst was 17 in 2021. This falls into the "very good" category on the index.
When comparing Bathurst to other major Australian cities, it consistently has lower levels of air pollution. For example, Sydney and Melbourne often reach "moderate" levels on the AQI, indicating more polluted air. Bathurst's lower population density contributes to cleaner air quality.
Going forward, Bathurst's air quality forecast looks positive. The NSW government has environmental laws in place to curb pollution, including the Protection of the Environment Operations Act. Initiatives like the NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy will also help reduce transport emissions over time. Maintaining strong air quality will be crucial for Bathurst's environment and public health. Proactive measures as outlined in environmental law should support a good air quality forecast.
What is the Air quality index of Bathurst?
According to the latest data from the NSW Environment Protection Authority, the current air quality index (AQI) for Bathurst is 21, which falls in the "very good" range. This was recorded at the Bathurst Macquarie Street station at 10am on February 10, 2024.
Does Bathurst have good air quality compared to other cities?
Yes, Bathurst has exceptionally good air quality compared to Australia's major cities. It ranks amongst the cities with the cleanest air in the country. Unlike densely populated metro areas like Sydney and Melbourne that often reach unhealthy pollution levels, Bathurst maintains low AQI values in the "good" to "very good" range.
Is Bathurst more polluted than Melbourne?
No, Bathurst is far less polluted than Melbourne. Over the past year, Bathurst had an annual average AQI of just 17, classifying air quality as "very good." In comparison, Melbourne's annual average AQI was 44, putting it into the more polluted "good" category. Peak daily readings in Melbourne can also frequently enter the "moderate" and "unhealthy for sensitive groups" ranges, while Bathurst seldom exceeds "good" levels.
What are the main sources of air pollution in Bathurst?
The main air pollutants of concern in Bathurst are particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and ozone, which primarily stem from motor vehicle emissions. Bathurst's air quality can deteriorate during winter months when wood heaters are also used more frequently.
Motor vehicles are the leading contributor to reduced air quality in Bathurst. As a regional centre, Bathurst sees heavy car and freight traffic passing through which generates pollution. Strategies are aimed at mitigating transport emissions.
Additionally, quarrying and mining operations in the region can produce particle pollution and dust clouds under certain weather conditions. Managing dust output from these industrial activities is therefore important.
What strategies are in place to improve air quality in Bathurst?
To combat vehicle emissions, there are local programs to incentivise electric vehicle ownership in Bathurst. The NSW government has also implemented standards on newer cars and heavy vehicles to curb pollution from exhaust fumes. Ongoing monitoring of high-traffic areas also enables targeted action when pollution spikes occur.
For industrial emissions, quarries and mines in the Bathurst region must comply with dust minimisation plans under NSW Environment Protection Authority regulations. This includes using water sprinklers, covered transport, and wind barriers to contain dust. If standards are breached, facilities can face penalties or production limits to force compliance.
What is Australia doing to prevent air pollution in Bathurst?
The NSW Environment Protection Authority works closely with Bathurst Regional Council, industry, and community groups to monitor, manage and improve local air quality. Laws like the Protection of the Environment Operations Act and policy programs such as NSW Action for Air provide regulatory and practical support. Research partnerships between universities and government also inform evidence-based decisions.
How do local government policies in Bathurst address air pollution?
Bathurst Regional Council supports the NSW Action for Air plan. This state policy sets targets to cut key air pollutants and guides coordinated efforts across different pollution sources. It prioritises actions like incentivising low-emission transport, reducing industrial emissions, and minimising pollution from wood heaters. Council plays a key role in driving local initiatives under this policy framework.
How can we reduce air pollution in Bathurst?
Individuals can help cut Bathurst’s transport emissions by walking, cycling and using public transport instead of cars. Carpooling also minimises pollution. Workplaces should consider flexible work arrangements to limit commuter traffic, while schools can encourage more active transport.
Better indoor air quality comes from well-ventilated buildings without smoking, use of efficient wood heaters, and avoiding toxic cleaning products or air fresheners with high VOC levels. House dust should also be regularly removed. These small changes collectively make a difference.
How did air pollution in Bathurst change over time?
Over the past decade, air quality in Bathurst has remained relatively consistent and low in pollution. This is partly attributable to NSW government emissions control policies on industry and progressive fuel and vehicle standards over the years. These measures help counteract rises in traffic volumes. Annual average PM10 levels have fluctuated between 14-22 μg/m3 over the last 10 years but show no clear upward or downward trajectory.
What are the future predictions for air pollution in Bathurst?
Based on NSW Environment Protection Authority modelling, air pollution levels in Bathurst are expected to continue improving into the future if current policies and standards remain in place. Wider adoption of electric vehicles will likely see declining transport emissions, while industrial emissions are predicted to stabilise.
Climate change may potentially worsen seasonal bushfire smoke impacts on Bathurst’s air quality during spring and summer. However, this remains an unpredictable factor. Overall, Bathurst should maintain relatively good air quality due to its regional nature and pollution reduction efforts. Sophisticated forecasting models account for these complex variables to indicate a positive long-term outlook.
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