Air pollution rises in Westbury after Bath CAZ begins
Air pollution rises in Westbury after Bath CAZ begins BBC.com
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A town experiences an increase in air pollution
Introduction
A town has seen a 12 to 14% increase in air pollution over the last few years, according to unofficial figures. The increase in Westbury is being partly blamed on Bath’s clean air zone (CAZ) as it can push lorries to use the A350 rather than the A36.
The Impact of Bath’s Clean Air Zone
The clean air zone in Bath has successfully reduced pollution levels in the city. However, this has resulted in increased traffic and pollution in Westbury.
Call for Action
Westbury councillors are calling for action from Wiltshire Council instead of blaming Bath. The leader of Wiltshire Council acknowledges that the county’s infrastructure is inadequate.
Air Quality Action Zone
Westbury has been designated as an “air quality action zone” since 2006 due to the A350 running through the town’s center.
Implementation of Clean Air Zone in Bath
In March 2021, Bath became the first city outside London to introduce a clean air zone.
Monitoring Equipment and Concerns
The pollution figures have been obtained by the town council through their own monitoring equipment. The mayor of Westbury expresses concerns about not only pollution but also noise, disruption, and vibrations in the small market town.
Responsibility of Wiltshire Council
The mayor of Westbury does not blame Bath for the situation but believes that Wiltshire Council should have taken more action to address the issue.
Infrastructure Challenges
The leader of Wiltshire Council acknowledges that the county’s infrastructure network is insufficient. The absence of a bypass in Westbury and the concentration of heavy goods vehicles in town centers contribute to the problem.
Collaboration and Solutions
Efforts to address the air pollution issue require collaboration between councils. The leader of Wiltshire Council emphasizes the need for a north-south infrastructure group promised by the government.
Perspective from Bath and North East Somerset Council
The deputy leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council states that they were given a directive to improve air quality in Bath quickly. They have been working with Wiltshire Council to understand the traffic issues but have not seen any monitoring infrastructure to assess the impact of the clean air zone.
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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
-
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- Indicator: Increase in air pollution levels in Westbury.
-
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
- Indicator: Increase in air pollution levels in Westbury.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | Increase in air pollution levels in Westbury. |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. | Increase in air pollution levels in Westbury. |
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Source: bbc.com
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