DISAPPOINTMENT FOLLOWING MEETING OF ENVIRONMENT MINISTERS OVER AIR POLLUTION

A group of Hunter doctors has expressed disappointment, over a decision by state and territory environment ministers regarding air pollution.

Today, a national standard for “coarse particle pollution” was set at 25 micrograms per cubic metre – well below what Doctors for the Environment were looking for.

A spokesperson says the Hunter has some of the worst air quality in Australia, and the ministers have caved into pressure from the mining industry.

Newcastle mother of two Charlotte McCabe agrees.

“It’s really concerning raising your children in a cloud of coal dust that you know is probably going to have some health effects even now or in the future,” she said.

The ministers had been considering three air quality standards – 12, 16 and 20 micrograms – but opted for 25.