Pollutants causing health effects in Hamilton

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Corr_Denis.jpg” caption=”Denis Corr”]In a recent research project, Clean Air Hamilton, a multi-stakeholder group dedicated to improving air quality in Hamilton's community, has determined which air pollutants have the most health impacts in the city. In conjunction with the Ministry of the Environment, City of Hamilton, Environment Canada, Rotek Environmental and Green Venture, a bus-sized vehicle was equipped with instruments to find and measure pollutant sources and their relative importance.

McMaster's Denis Corr, adjunct professor of engineering physics and audit and research manager, Rotek Environmental, will be presenting the results of this study at the McMaster Institute of Environment & Health (MIEH) and Hamilton Industrial Environmental Association's (HIEA) annual community lecture on Tuesday, April 18. As always, reality brings some surprises, including findings around large intersections and schools.

“The HIEA-MIEH partnership culminates yearly in the form of a community lecture which illustrates environment and health research. This is the third such jointly sponsored lecture,” says Geoff Saldanha, HIEA Chair. MIEH Director, Bruce Newbold, adds, “This public lecture offers an opportunity for the public to understand the linkages between the local environment and health, and how industry is working to improve our air quality.”

To lessen the impact of these air pollutants on health, Corr recommends cyclists and pedestrians should avoid traveling on main roads, particularly intersections, and drivers should turn off car ignitions when waiting for passengers. Parents dropping kids off at school, for example, may not consider the amount of impact this kind of activity might have on the environment. Corr also suggests that there are five industrial areas in Hamilton, not just one.

Corr will discuss the study results and recommendations on Tuesday, April 18, 2006 at Hamilton's Chamber of Commerce, 555 Bay St. North. A reception will be held from 5 to 6 p.m., with HIEA presentations from 6 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the lecture. This free event is open to anyone in the Hamilton community. Light refreshments will be provided during the reception.