Air pollution

Press, 30 June 1983, Page 16

Air pollution

Sir,—M. A. Hogan (June 28) suggests that smoke is essential to clean healthy living, whereas in fact, smoke always represents inefficient combustion. Quite obviously bonfires may be used for burning plaptic materials and this practice coaid be dangerous for the fumes

given off are noxious. I agree that the present method of dumping is unsatisfactory and if it is impracticable to recycle or compost, I suggest once again that all suitable materials should be pulverised to a fine tilth before dumping. The Clean Air Council issues a pamphlet on garden incinerators and their use, the pamphlet is No. 340 and it is issued free by the Health Department — Yours, etc., PATRICK NEARY. June 28, 1983.

Sir,—ln reply to M. A. Hogan (June 28), Christchurch ranks sky high on the world list of cities with bad air pollution. In comparison with those in other cities in New Zealand people in Christchurch have the highest incidence of some form of respiratory disease. After travelling throughout the South Island, many people tell me that they have left Christchurch because of the filthy winter smog and never ending bonfires. Electricity is the best form of renewable energy in the South Island and a 2 kW thermostatically controlled heater in the living room will keep anybody comfortably warm and the city healthy and clean. — Yours, etc., G. A. VAN KUPPEVELT. June 28, 1983.