The air quality index (AQI) is a measurement used by government agencies to communicate air pollution levels to the public. A higher AQI value indicates a higher level of air pollution and associated health concerns.
The AQI in Brisbane is generally good, with values typically ranging between 0 and 50. According to Queensland Government data, the annual average AQI value for Brisbane was 12 in 2021. This falls into the "very good" category on the AQI scale.
In comparison to other major Australian cities, Brisbane enjoys better overall air quality. Sydney and Melbourne both have higher average AQI values than Brisbane. For example, Sydney had an annual average AQI of 14 in 2021, while Melbourne's was 13.
Forecasts suggest Brisbane's air quality will remain relatively good into the future if current trends continue. However, more extreme weather events driven by climate change may periodically cause worse short-term pollution.
The Queensland Government has implemented various policies and legislation aimed at preserving good air quality over the long term. These include the Environmental Protection Act 1994 and initiatives to promote public and active transport over private car use. Tighter federal vehicle emission standards introduced in 2022 will also help limit transport-related pollution.
Further improvements to Brisbane's air quality will likely require continued progress on environmental laws and policies at both state and federal level in Australia. An ongoing focus on transitioning to renewable energy and clean transport will be important to mitigate risks from bushfires, dust storms and population growth impacting future air pollution levels.
What is the Air quality index of Brisbane?
As of February 16th, 2023, the current Air Quality Index (AQI) for Brisbane is 22 according to data from the Queensland Government. This puts Brisbane's real-time air quality in the "good" range.
Does Brisbane have good air quality compared to other cities?
Yes, Brisbane enjoys comparatively good air quality amongst Australian state capital cities. In the latest 2021 reports, Brisbane ranked behind only Perth and Adelaide for lowest average AQI at 12. Melbourne reported a higher annual average AQI of 13, while Sydney was at 14.
Is Brisbane more polluted than Melbourne?
No, Melbourne is generally more polluted than Brisbane in terms of air quality. In 2021, Melbourne had a higher average AQI of 13 compared to Brisbane's 12. Both cities fall into the "very good" range on the index, but Melbourne consistently exceeds Brisbane in pollution levels according to government tracked data.
What are the main sources of air pollution in Brisbane?
The key air pollutants of concern in Brisbane are particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and ozone. Motor vehicle emissions are a major contributor, with around 48% of total nitrogen oxides emissions coming from this source. Other transportation like shipping and aviation also contribute to pollution.
Industrial emissions come predominantly from manufacturing, chemical production, metal processing, waste incineration and commercial operations. The greater Brisbane area is home to seven of Queensland's largest industrial air pollution sources.
What strategies are in place to improve air quality in Brisbane?
To combat transport pollution, Brisbane City Council provides incentives for switching to electric vehicles, has extensive cycling infrastructure to promote active transit and is electrifying the public transport bus fleet. The Queensland Government also has vehicle emission standards and monitors pollution from ships, trains and planes.
For industry, the federal National Pollutant Inventory requires larger facilities to report on substance releases. This informs air quality policy and regulation. Stricter licensing conditions on polluting sites and transitioning power generation to renewables will further limit industrial emissions. Public education programs also help households reduce their contribution.
What is Australia Doing to prevent Air pollution in Brisbane?
The Queensland Government works with Brisbane City Council, industry representatives and community groups on air quality issues. This includes operating a joint Air Quality Reference Group to coordinate monitoring, research and policy initiatives under the Environmental Protection Act 1994.
Key regulations include the National Environment Protection (Air Toxics) Measure, which limits major industrial emissions, and national vehicle pollution standards. Queensland also has specific laws targeting major dust and odour causing activities.
How do local government policies in Brisbane address air pollution?
Brisbane City Council supports programs like the Queensland Government's NSW Action for Air strategy. This promotes zero and low emission vehicles, renewable energy, better waste management and increasing green spaces locally to help mitigate and monitor pollution.
How can we reduce air pollution in Brisbane?
Individuals can walk, cycle or take public transport instead of driving to lower transport emissions. Carpooling and maintaining vehicles well also helps. Wise energy use, reducing waste sent to landfill, and having indoor plants can improve indoor air. On bad air quality days, limiting intense outdoor exercise and staying indoors assists those vulnerable to pollution.
How did air pollution in Brisbane change over time?
Over the past decade, air pollution levels in Brisbane have remained relatively stable and low. Brisbane's annual average Air Quality Index (AQI) value has fluctuated between 11 and 13 since 2013, sitting in the "very good" range. This consistency is partially thanks to Queensland Government policies like industrial emission licensing, vehicle standards and cleaner fuel targets.
What are the future predictions for air pollution in Brisbane?
Based on CSIRO and Bureau of Meteorology modelling, Brisbane is likely to retain relatively good air quality in the near future. However more extreme heatwaves, bushfires and storms driven by climate change could periodically worsen pollution from particle matter and ozone.
Scientists factor in projections for population growth, economic activity, technology improvements and global emissions when predicting Brisbane's outlook. Computer simulations help understand dispersion and concentration of pollutants under different scenarios.
Overall, Brisbane's air pollution levels are expected to remain below national standards in the coming years. But continued progress on reducing fossil fuel use, private car dependency and waste generation will be necessary to prevent climate change impacts from increasing future air pollution.
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