We all have a right to breathe clean, fresh air.  Environment Southland's aim is to actively involve Southlanders in the management of our air.

The main issues are possible contaminants in the air, which in turn can affect our health and our enjoyment of amenities, as well as the long-term effects on the global environment.  These can arise from a range of domestic, commercial and industrial practices, for example:

• smoke levels from domestic and industrial fires dust from quarries, mines and gravel roads
• discharge of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide from the combustion of fossil fuels, which affect the global air environment
• odours from meat processing, effluent ponds and rubbish burning
• discharges by industry

Southlanders want to enjoy their chosen lifestyles and feel confident about the continuing industrial and commercial success of the region, and at the same time maintain a high standard of air quality.  Environment Southland applies common sense and practicality in managing our air.

By collecting relevant information and data, and through a process of consultation with the people of Southland, Environment Southland can initiate the appropriate standards and consent conditions which help us maintain our air quality.  This information has been incorporated into the Regional Air Quality Plan.