Motor vehicles are, of course, a significant source of air pollution, especially in large urban areas. Information is not available on the relative contribution of different modes of transport to overall pollution. However, I propose to circulate in the Official Report a tabular statement setting out the other information requested. The table has been prepared by the environmental research unit of my Department, based on the position in 1987, the latest year for which such figures are available.
Improvement in air quality in our towns and cities will lead to a reduction of vehicle emissions. Accordingly, the transposition of all relevant vehicle emissions directives into Irish law is being considered at present with a view to having appropriate regulations made later this year. Following is the Statement:
National 1987 Emissions [Tonnes]*
|
Nitrogen Oxides
|
Carbon Monoxide
|
Volatile Organic Compound?**
|
Particulars
|
|
(NO x)
|
(CO)
|
VOC)
|
|
Total Emissions
|
115,108
|
456,705
|
139,561
|
106,674
|
Road Transport
|
48,836
|
331,744
|
61,217
|
8,260
|
% Total
|
42%
|
73%
|
44%
|
8%
|
Petrol Engines
|
27,857
|
323,769
|
58,489
|
1,661
|
Diesel Engines
|
20,853
|
7,814
|
2,634
|
6,599
|
* Calculated on the basis of fuel consumption.
** Natural emissions (forests, cattle) excluded.
In addition, there was an estimated emission of approximately 170 tonnes of lead from petrol engines in 1987. Approximately 20-25 per cent of emissions from petrol engines could be attributed to the Dublin city area.