Improving Air Quality

Air quality is an increasingly important issue for local authorities and is relevant to policy areas such as public health and the environment. Groundcare equipment powered by diesel or petrol can produce significant emissions of pollutants such as oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and particulate matter, which local authorities are tasked by the Government to reduce. In addition, bulk storage and spillage of fuels can present problems such as possible contamination of greens and water courses, with consequent risk to wildlife and the environment.

• Think about the use of alternative fuels. Vehicles, groundcare equipment, golf cars and weed control equipment can all be operated using alternative fuels such as liquefied petroluem gas (LPG) with reduced emissions.
• Some alternative fuels are considerably cheaper than traditional fuels as a result of duty incentives. It can make sound economic sense to help the environment.
• Consult with suppliers of alternative fuels and groundcare equipment on the installation of bulk tanks and machinery options available.
• Look at how your fuel is stored and its potential impact on the park's environment and wildlife. Alternative fuels can be stored on site in bulk tanks with reduced risk of spillage and contamination.
• Liaise with colleagues in other departmentson their use of alternative fuels and consider how you might benefit from existing policy.
• If your local authority has declared an AQMA (Air Quality Management Area), the use of lower emission machinery will contribute towards cleaner air.

For more information about Air Quality Management Areas visit: www.airquality.co.uk