On 29 April 2014, Ministers signaled their intention to vary the National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) Measure for particles reflecting the latest scientific understanding on health risks arising from particle pollution.
The Measure seeks to establish a more stringent reporting standard for particle pollution (PM2.5 and PM10).
Information on the process to vary the Ambient Air Quality NEPM, including consultation opportunities, will be published as it becomes available.
An Impact Statement, which evaluates the environmental, social and economic costs and benefits of meeting proposed standards for airborne particles, and a draft varied Ambient Air Quality NEPM has been open for public comment since August.
This period ends on Friday, 10 October 2014.
Proposed variation to the Ambient Air Quality NEPM - submissions close 10 October 2014
Notice of intention to vary the National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) Measure
Background
A National Environment Protection Measure (NEPM) is legislation designed to protect and manage particular aspects of the environment. NEPMs are similar to environmental protection policies. A NEPM may consist of any combination of goals, standards, protocols, and guidelines. The objectives of a NEPM are to ensure:
- that people enjoy the benefit of equivalent protection from air, water and soil pollution, wherever they live
- that decisions by businesses are not distorted and markets not fragmented by variations between jurisdictions in relation to the adoption or implementation of the NEPMs.
In 1998, the NEPC made the National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) Measure (the NEPM) which set ambient air quality standards to apply in all states and territories and over land controlled by the Commonwealth. This was the first time that national air quality standards had been set in Australia. These standards covered six common pollutants—particles (PM10), ozone, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and lead. The NEPM provided a nationally consistent framework for the monitoring and reporting of these six pollutants.
The NEPM was varied in 2003 to incorporate advisory reporting standards for fine particles (PM2.5). Preliminary work for a review of the ozone standards and the standard for sulfur dioxide was completed in 2005. The Time Activity Study was completed in 2004, and the Multi-city Mortality and Morbidity Study completed in 2006. The Children’s Health and Air Pollution Study is currently being conducted and it is anticipated that the results will be available for consideration if it is decided to vary the NEPM.
On 16 September 2011, Council agreed to release the review of the National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) Measure, and noted that the review's recommendations will be prioritised and responded to through the development of the National Plan for Clean Air. The new National Plan for Clean Air will provide a robust framework for identifying cost effective emission reduction actions, and implementation arrangements.
Ambient Air Quality NEPM Review - Review Report - September 2011