Air quality objectives and action themes
4.6 Theme 5: Regulation and Enforcement The success of this air quality strategy is, in part, built upon the development of a strong regulatory system that includes enforceability mechanisms.
For new City Council buildings and council housing stock, adherence to zero solid fuel heating systems will help deliver a reduction in emissions of smoke related particulates (PM22.5) and will compliment the City Council's Climate Change Adaptation Strategy 2019-2024. https://www.corkcity.ie/en/media-folder/ environment/final-cork-city-council-climate-change-adaptation-strategy-30-sept-2019-.pdf The insertion of new air quality monitoring planning conditions to all building sites will reduce emissions of fine dust and heavier particles in the immediate environment of the construction sites. Continued enforcement of the ‘Smoky Coal Ban’ will ensure that Cork City remains a low smoke zone, thus contributing to the health and well-being citizens. At national level, new proposals and standards may need to be adopted to enable phasing out of the sale of traditional coal and applying sulphur standards; as well as smoke emission limits to the sale of all solid fuels. The Government is also considering tougher regulations to deter the burning of wet wood in private homes, which is less energy efficient than dry wood and produces more smoke emissions.
Theme Summary » Ensure that all building sites adhere to air quality standards.
» Ensure that all new Cork City Council buildings adhere to zero solid fuel heating systems. » Reduce carbon emissions for social housing stock by installing renewables and improving thermal insulation to the NZEB (Near Zero Energy Building) standard. » Ensure that solid fuel suppliers and the public are aware of Solid Fuel Regulations (i.e. prohibition on the sale and distribution of smoky coals in Cork city). » Continue inspections of fuel suppliers. » Continue to respond to complaints of air pollution.
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