Traffic congestion is one of the main contributors to air pollution in New Zealand.
One way to measure air quality is through fine particulate matter called PM2.5. These tiny particles enter the air from many human and natural sources, such as dust and vehicle exhaust, and can make the air appear hazy when at high levels. Particles can travel vast distances, meaning air pollution caused in one place may transcend borders to impact people in another region altogether. The decline in clean air is a threat to human health, the environment, greater economic prosperity, and society.
Clean air is an essential part of a living ecosystem. However, this is not a reality for many of those who live in urban areas. Emissions from vehicles contribute particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds to the atmosphere. Exposure to these air pollutants can yield negative health effects, ranging from acute respiratory symptoms to more chronic illnesses. Let your government know that it must enhance New Zealand's public transportation to reduce the number of vehicles on the roads and invest in clean vehicle and engine technology!