The most important pollutant in Ireland from a health perspective is what we call 'fine particulate matter'. It is estimated to cause ~1,300 premature deaths in Ireland annually. See what is particulate matter for more information on this pollutant.
The predominant source of fine particulate matter in Ireland is from the burning of solid fuel for home-heating.
To help protect your good air quality and health the Irish consumer must become more aware of their choice in home heating fuel and the potential impact that choice can have on our air quality.
Have a look at our 'home heating infographic' to see what changes you can make to your home heating choices to improve air quality.
Many air pollutant sources have an impact on both air quality and greenhouse gas emissions. To avoid unintended consequences, actions to mitigate air quality need to consider impacts on climate change and vice versa.
Passenger vehicles are a major pollution contributor, producing significant amounts of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and other pollution. Clean vehicle and fuel technologies provide us with an affordable, available means of reducing transportation-related air pollution and climate change emissions. These include fuel-efficient vehicles that use less oil; cleaner fuels that produce fewer emissions; and electric cars and trucks that can entirely remove tailpipe emissions.
To reduce the impact of vehicle emissions in cities, individuals should use more sustainable transport modes such as cycling, walking and public transport.
Have a look at our 'air quality and transport infographic' to see what changes you can make to your transport choices that will improve air quality.
