Author(s)

J. Barnes, B. Parsons & L. Salter

Abstract

Spatially extensive, short-term nitrogen dioxide (NO2) diffusion tube surveys were carried out across 11 towns in Cornwall to monitor the effects of traffic-related pollution. Elevated concentrations of NO2 were identified in most towns, primarily as a result of topography, traffic congestion, traffic type and volume. Concentrations in some towns were high enough to indicate that 2005 NAQS objectives would be breached. This was of particular concern where residential properties are proximate to sites of high NO2 concentrations in recognised deprived areas. Results were mapped and deterministically interpolated using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) as an interpretative aid for local authorities’ Environmental Health and Transport and Planning departments. As a consequence of this study further monitoring is currently or imminently underway and transportation and planning improvements have been initiated. Keywords: nitrogen dioxide, GIS, Cornwall, diffusion tube monitoring, Local Air Quality Management, traffic-related pollution, canyon street, deprivation. 1 Introduction 1.1 Health Exposure to elevated levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) has human health implications. Short-term exposures (e.g. < 3 h) to elevated ambient NO2 concentrations leads to changes in airway responsiveness and lung function in individuals with pre-existing respiratory illnesses and increases in respiratory illnesses in children 5-12 years old (AQEG [1]). Long-term exposures may lead to increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and may cause alterations in

Keywords

nitrogen dioxide, GIS, Cornwall, diffusion tube monitoring, Local AirQuality Management, traffic-related pollution, canyon street, deprivation.