Airport says cars more polluting than planes
17.02.08
Cars are bigger polluters than planes, according to research into air pollution around Edinburgh Airport. [The research, commissioned by airport operator BAA, does not, however, take into account the carbon dioxide emitted by aircraft when they are 1000 metres above the ground and high altitude winds disperse emissions.]
The airport study has revealed that the highest levels of nitrogen dioxide are found in the airport's car parks, forecourt and approach roads, rather than on the main airfield. Nitrogen dioxide is the most common measure of air pollution and 5 out of 20 locations tested around the airport had pollution above government levels.
The EU objective for nitrogen dioxide is 40 micrograms per metre cubed, but the tests showed levels around the taxi area at Edinburgh Airport were at 49, while the forecourt was at 44. Tested areas on the main airfield gave average readings of 19, whilst monitoring in surrounding communities such as Lennymuir, Castle Gogar and Lochend showed nitrogen dioxide levels well below the EU limits.
In 2010, the EU targets on air quality become mandatory and the airport faces being hit by fines of thousands of pounds unless it reduces the readings. However, the airport will be served by the tram by 2011 and bosses are planning further public transport improvements.
Already around a quarter of all passengers at Edinburgh Airport arrive by public transport – the highest figure for any UK airport without a rail link. Airport officials have promised to step up its efforts to increase the number of passengers coming to the airport by bus.
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