This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Air quality report published
13/02/2003
Figures released today show that while air quality in Scotland is generally of a good standard but there are high concentrations of pollutants in some parts of Central Scotland.
Deputy Environment Minister Allan Wilson revealed the results of an Executive-funded study were presented at the National Society for Clean Air's conference in Edinburgh.
The findings will help to inform future Executive policy on improving air quality and reducing any possible associated adverse health impact from air pollutants.
The study shows that while air pollution levels are generally low, there are occurrences in Central Scotland where high pollutant concentrations occur due to a range of sources, including transport and industry, which can, in particular circumstances, have an effect on health issues.
The figures are being released on the same day that the Executive announced plans to improve public information about progress in reducing pollution in Scotland.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency will launch a comprehensive online pollution inventory in August 2005. It will show, within a Geographic Information System environment emissions from sites across Scotland, and highlight the progress of measures taken to reduce industrial pollution.
Mr Wilson said:
"Public health is, as always, a top priority for the Executive and we take the views of our expert health advisors very seriously. That is one of the reasons that we funded this study.
"We have taken tough action on particles and oth er pollutants, and will continue to do so. Indeed, our objective for particles in Scotland is more stringent than anywhere else in the UK.
"Our Air Quality Strategy sets out a comprehensive framework of policy measures which aim to improve air quality.
"For example, the Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control regime will help to reduce emissions from a range of industrial processes.
"We have also launched the Clean Up Scotland programme which will cut pollution from HGVs, buses, taxis and other commercial vehicles."