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21
WQ.170/2018
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
BY DEPUTY M. TADIER OF ST. BRELADE
ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON TUESDAY 25th SEPTEMBER 2018
Question
Further to the findings of tests carried out on behalf of the Department of the Environment that showed that levels of NO2 in the Tunnel were up to 7 times higher than those recorded at Snow Hill, is it the Minister's assessment that people walking and cycling through the Tunnel are safe; and, if not, what action will he take to safeguard the health of these categories of commuters?
Answer
The air quality tests carried out in Jersey's tunnel in June 2017 confirmed the air quality during peak times is poor. However, the Environmental Health team advise me that people walking or cycling through the tunnel are safe.
The tunnel signage warning of poor air quality has recently been replaced and I believe it is for the public to decide if they wish to use the tunnel or use an alternative route that has lower levels of pollution.
To reduce exposure to poor air quality by people using the tunnel, the Environmental Health team advises:
- drivers should close their windows and switch off air vents
- when stationary, drivers should switch off engines
- cyclists and pedestrians should minimise the time they spend in the tunnel
- cyclists and pedestrians with respiratory problems should avoid the tunnel at peak times
Air quality in the tunnel is largely determined by the volume and the nature of traffic using it, although wind direction and wind speed plays a small part.
More specialist air quality monitoring of vehicle emissions has also been carried out, including a near real- time air quality monitoring system. This allowed the emissions from vehicles to be monitored by vehicle make, model and age, and this data will be used to inform future evidence based policy decisions.
I take air quality matters very seriously. Working with other Ministers and Officers I will continue to explore ways to reduce vehicle emissions to benefit the air quality across the island. The proposed legislation necessary for Jersey to meet international standards for vehicle safety and roadworthiness, due to be debated by the States Assembly soon, will also make vehicles more environmentally friendly.
It is important to remember that air quality across the island is generally very good.