The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is installing up to 20 new air quality monitors in west Lake Macquarie to assist the community to respond to local air quality issues including dust, as a warm dry summer approaches.
EPA Director Operations David Gathercole said the monitors will complement the existing air quality monitoring network operated by the government and licensees to provide a better picture of outdoor air quality.
This information can help both the EPA and the community identify areas of concern and may help inform future initiatives in the area.
"We know the communities in west Lake Macquarie are very keen to have the most up to date information on their outdoor air quality and these monitors will provide real benefit," Mr Gathercole said.
"The program allows the community to access air quality data in near real time, so they can make better informed decisions in response to air quality where they are.
"Monitors are being installed from this week, with more sites coming online over coming weeks in targeted areas stretching from Acadia Vale and Awaba to Wangi Wangi and Wyee.
"They will complement the existing NSW air quality monitoring sites at Morisset and Wyong and readings will be considered along with the broader network.
"The new monitors are expected to provide data over the next 6 months, with the first of the sensors live now," Mr Gathercole said.
The community can access the data collected by the new monitors on the EPA website https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/your-environment/air/regional-air-quality/lake-macquarie-dust-monitoring-program
