Page 4032 - Week 15 - Wednesday, 16 December 1992
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Studies referred to in the report show that solid fuel emissions provide a major proportion of the particular pollution prevalent over Canberra in the winter months. This brown haze has been the subject of many complaints from Canberra residents. Air pollution from wood heaters not only is a health hazard but also detracts from Canberra as an attractive, clean capital city. There is also concern within the community about the depletion of native hardwood trees and the clearing of forests and road verges.
The Government is concerned about the possible deleterious effects of solid fuel appliances on Canberra's air quality and has already implemented some of the actions recommended in the standing committee report. The Government is committed to the maintenance of continuous air quality monitoring throughout the ACT and has provided funding for a three-year program to upgrade the monitoring network. Monitoring results for 1991 have been published, and it is intended that they be published quarterly. Government agencies are developing a pollution index for the ACT which will be made available to the media on a daily basis. The ACT Government will formally adopt the National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines regarding ambient levels of total suspended particulates.
As part of the review of environment protection legislation, the Government is proposing to adopt the emission standards for new domestic solid fuel appliances contained in Australian Standard AS4013 1992. While it is not practicable to test and replace existing installations, a public education program on clean burning practices will be considered as a means of reducing smoke emissions from both new and existing appliances. Correct operation of solid fuel appliances is essential for controlling emissions of total suspended particulates and for compliance with emission standards. The Government has already funded brochures on correct burning practices and operation of solid fuel appliances. In addition, it has obtained the cooperation of fuel merchants and retailers in promoting good practices to their customers.
The planning of future ACT housing developments to ensure appropriate solar orientation for passive heating is directed at reducing the requirement for non-renewable energy sources. The Government has recently released energy guidelines which identify procedures for maximising the use of passive solar energy in the planning of subdivisions and siting of dwellings. In line with reducing energy requirements, the Government has requested that the ACT Building Control raise with the Australian Uniform Building Regulation Coordinating Council the need to develop uniform standards for thermal insulation of residential premises. Building Control will also undertake a cost-benefit study, and, based on the analysis and discussions with industry, the Government will decide whether insulation should be mandatory at a variety of levels. We have already made it mandatory in wall cavities. The Government is particularly concerned to ensure that homes are more energy efficient. These initiatives not only benefit the well-being of the ACT community but contribute to an overall reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and are consistent with the principles of ecologically sustainable development.
The proposed response does not commit the Government to any expenditure above that already committed in the 1992-93 budget. Some recommendations agreed to in principle will be considered in the context of the 1993-94 budget.
Debate (on motion by Mr Westende) adjourned.
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