epm class report b

1 | P a g e Environmental Pollution Management Portfolio

Air Quality Management Glasgow & Grangemouth Petrochemical Industrial Complex Gordon Best

Abstract

This report investigates the air quality management schemes in place in the City of Glasgow and

Grangemouth Petrochemical Industrial Complex. Both areas have implemented comprehensive

strategies to identify, monitor, and manage the level of harmful pollutants, but to somewhat differing

degrees of success.

Glasgow’s Air Quality Management Area fails to meet the Air Quality Objectives in Nitrogen Dioxide

and PM10 levels under the Local Air Quality Management Plan, where pollution standards are

exceeded frequently at monitoring locations in the City Centre area .

In contrast, Grangemouth meets all Air Quality Objectives, including its particular focus of Sulphur

Dioxide under the Local Air Quality Management Grangemouth Air Quality Management Area Action

Plan. The AQMA status remains to ensure that these standards are maintained, and further reduce

the level of pollutants, and public exposure, experienced from the operation of the Grangemouth

Petrochemical Industrial Plant. News reports have confirmed that US shale gas will soon be imported

by INEOS Petrochemicals to the plant, increasing emissions significantly, so a strategy must be devised

to minimise harmful emissions, and protect public health.

This report recommends that both areas should continue implementing the strategy devised to

further minimise the level of pollutants in the atmosphere, and reduce the level of exposure to

members of the public in the area.


Contents 1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 3

2. Hazard Identification ....................................................................................................................... 4

2.1 Benzene ......................................................................................................................................... 4

2.2 1,3-Butadiene ................................................................................................................................ 4

2.3 Carbon Monoxide ......................................................................................................................... 5

2.4 Lead ............................................................................................................................................... 5

2.5 Nitrogen Dioxide ........................................................................................................................... 5

2.6 Ozone ............................................................................................................................................ 5

2.7 Particles ......................................................................................................................................... 6

2.8 Sulphur Dioxide ............................................................................................................................. 6

3. Exposure Assessment ...................................................................................................................... 7

3.1 Glasgow City Centre ...................................................................................................................... 7

3.2 Grangemouth .............................................................................................................................. 11

4. Public Risk Assessment ................................................................................................................. 13

5. Public Risk Management ............................................................................................................... 15

5.1 Glasgow ....................................................................................................................................... 15

5.2 Grangemouth .............................................................................................................................. 17

6. Conclusions ................................................................................................................................... 19

7. References .................................................................................................................................... 20

8. Appendices .................................................................................................................................... 21

Appendix 1- European Directives ...................................................................................................... 21

Figure 1- Glasgow City Centre AQMA- Monitoring Facilities and Sensitive Areas, 2016………………… …..7

Figure 2- Nitrogen Dioxide Exceedance Areas, Glasgow, FOE, 2014………………………….....………………….10

Figure 3- Glasgow’s Nitrogen Dioxide Trends, Scottish Air Quality, 2015…………………………………….....10

Figure 4- Grangemouth AQMA- Monitoring Facilities and Sensitive Areas, 2016……………………….…….11

Figure 5- Grangemouth Sulphur Dioxide Levels, DEFRA 2016……...…………………………………..……………..13

Figure 6- Comparison of Glasgow’s Pollutant Levels with AQO Standards, Excel 2016…….. ……………..13

Figure 7- Comparison of Grangemouth’s Pollutant Levels with AQO Standards, Excel 2016…………….14

Figure 8- Predicted NO2 Levels for Glasgow, Local Action Plan ……………………………………………………….18

Figure 9- Predicted PM10 Levels for Glasgow, Local Action Plan 2004 …………………………………………... 18

Figure 10- Sulphur Dioxide AQO Exceedance Cases 2009-2013, LAQM Action Plan & USA, 2015 ….…18

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1. Introduction

With a rich industrial past, Glasgow has been closely associated with high levels of pollution, and poor

air quality, notably the thick smog experienced during the 1950s. Similarly, the Grangemouth

Petrochemical Industrial Plant in Falkirk has received widespread criticism for emitting harmful

pollutants, potentially resulting in cardiovascular and respiratory problems for many in the region.

In recent years, local authorities and the Scottish Government have implemented plans to tackle these

issues, and significantly improve the quality of air in Scotland’s cities and high risk areas, such as near

industrial areas, leading to significant improvements in local health. Both areas were assigned Air

Quality Management Area (AQMA) status, defining an area where significant steps need to be taken

to improve the quality of the air.

This report will investigate the plans for both the AQMA within the City of Glasgow, and for the AQMA

near to the Grangemouth Industrial Plant. Firstly, the hazardous pollutants, and their sources, will be

identified. Then the effect these substances can have on human health will be explained, in addition

to the techniques used to identify the pollutants.

Secondly, an exposure assessment will be carried out for both areas. This section will identify the

location of the monitoring sites, in addition to any particularly sensitive areas, for example schools,

which may be significantly impacted by poor air quality. The data recorded from the sites will be

investigated, allowing conclusions to be drawn regarding the extent of exposure experienced by the

local community for each case study.

The next section of the report will examine the current standards used to evaluate air quality and

overall risk to the public. In a UK context, this standard is the Air Quality Objectives (AQO).

Additionally, the framework will be analysed to consider if any pollutants are omitted from the

investigation, or if any are overly regulated

Finally, the report will outline the programmes used for each site to manage the risk, and monitor the

exposure levels to the local population. The steps which are proposed to be taken to mitigate or

eliminate existing emissions, and to bring the programme in line with standards for pollution control,

will be described. The method which the solutions were developed by policy advisors, key

stakeholders, and relevant organisations will be explained to better understand the policy creation

process


2. Hazard Identification

In this section, the eight key pollutants defined by the Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) Plan will

be detailed; in terms of where each of these is sourced, how they can be detected, and the damage

which can result from exposure. This list will form the basis for the risk assessment and management

sections, where these sources can be prioritised and targeted to mitigate harmful emissions.

The National Air Quality Survey suggested a list of key pollutants which must be prioritised in order to

improve the quality of air in the UK. The survey’s list has affected legislation at a national, and regional

level, and closely matches up with the priority pollutants identified in Glasgow’s Local Air Quality

Management Plan.

These eight priority pollutants are listed as follows, in addition to the monitoring systems currently in

use by DEFRA (Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs).

2.1 Benzene

Benzene is a known carcinogen derived from a variety of sources, but generally from transport

emissions and from industrial hydrocarbon emissions.

Following long term exposure, benzene is commonly associated with acute myeloid leukaemia.

(WHO, 2015)

Although it quickly degrades in the air, it can be monitored using BTEX diffusion tubes, allowing the

benzene to be captured and analysed. (DEFRA, 2016)

2.2 1,3-Butadiene

1,3-Butadiene is also a known carcinogen, derived from the combustion of petroleum substances in

vehicles, in addition to some industrial processes, for example synthetic rubber manufacture.

Like Benzene, long term exposure can lead to leukaemia, and other tissue based cancers.

1,3-Butadiene breaks down quickly in the air, but is constantly present due to the constant release

from intensive vehicle emissions. These emissions can be detected and monitored using sampling

tubes. (DEFRA, 2016)


2.3 Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is formed from incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons, primarily from road

vehicles, but also in industrial combustion.

Exposure significantly reduces the ability of the body to carry the required oxygen to tissue, also

interrupting the biochemical reactions carried out within cells. In high concentrations, it can be a

powerful and dangerous asphyxiant.

CO levels are commonly measured using gas filter correlation infra-red absorption analysers, but can

be measured at a smaller scale using portable electro-chemical analysers, or even home CO detection

kits. (DEFRA, 2016)

2.4 Lead

Lead is emitted as particulate from the combustion of coal, iron, steel and nonferrous metals.

High toxicity from lead leads to problems with kidneys, digestive system, joints, reproduction, and

the nervous system when inhaled.

In the UK, it is measured on a weekly basis using a sampler using a PM10 sized inlet, and analysed

using atomic absorption spectroscopy. (DEFRA, 2016)

2.5 Nitrogen Dioxide

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) is released from vehicles during fuel combustion, also sourced from power

stations and industrial use.

Exposure can lead to a variety of respiratory problems, ranging from mild inflammation of the

airways, to long term lung damage.

NO2 is continuously monitored using chemiluminescent analysers, or portable electro-chemical

analysers for more temporary monitoring operations. (DEFRA, 2016)

2.6 Ozone

Ozone (O3) is created by chemical reactions between pollutants, usually oxides of nitrogen and

volatile organic compounds. These reactions are intensified by sunlight, and can take as many as

several days to fully form.

Exposure can cause irritation to the eyes and nose under high concentrations, in addition to

inflammations of the airways of the respiratory system.

Ozone is monitored using UV absorption analysers. (DEFRA, 2016)


2.7 Particles

Particulate Matter (PM) is a common by-product of combustion reactions. These particles can vary by

size, allowing categorisation, whereby PM10 would refer to a particle with a diameter of <10 µm.

Additionally, these particles can vary by material type and source, however the majority of PM found

in UK air is derived from vehicular or industrial emissions.

Inhalation of PM is strongly linked to respiratory and cardiovascular problems. The type, and severity

of health issue depends highly on the variances in material type, and size of particle.

Due to the varying sizes of PM, several monitoring systems are in use. For larger, PM10, a Filter-based

gravimetric sampler may be used, for smaller PM2.5 particles may require use of a Filter Dynamic

Measurement System. (DEFRA, 2016)

2.8 Sulphur Dioxide

Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) is primarily sourced from combustion of coal and oil in power stations.

Exposure can narrow the airways in the respiratory system, affecting breathing ability, especially in

asthma sufferers.

Similarly to monitoring Ozone levels, UV absorption analysers are used to monitor SO2 levels.

With these key pollutants identified, the optimum monitoring system could be developed, the sources

of pollution could be targeted, and the effects could be fully understood, allowing a mitigation strategy

to be developed. (DEFRA, 2016)


3. Exposure Assessment

In this section, the location of receptors to gather data, and nearby sensitive areas, will be

demonstrated for the AQMAs in Glasgow City Centre and Grangemouth. Digimap and GIS software

allowed more interactive examination of these locations, permitting additional analysis to determine

the level exposure caused by the emissions from particular sources.

3.1 Glasgow City Centre

The Local Air Quality Management Plan classified the entire City of Glasgow as an Air Quality

Management Area (AQMA) in 2012, following repeated and widespread incidences of Nitgrogen

Dioxide objective exceedance. In 2013, this area was split into smaller AQMAs, including the area seen

in Figure 1, located in Glasgow City Centre, where DEFRA’s Automatic Monitoring and Non Automatic

Networks are in place. Similar plans are in place in Byres Road, Dumbarton Road and Parkhead Cross,

where Nitgrogen Dioxide is also particularly high. With these areas identified as priority targets for

managing high levels of air pollution, a local plan can be developed.

School/ Educational

Monitoring Facility

Hospital

Figure 1- Glasgow City Centre AQMA- Monitoring Facilities and Sensitive Areas (Digimap & LAQM Overlay), 2016

Site 1- Great Western Road

Site 2- Kerbside

Site 3- Townhead

Site 4- High Street

Byres Road

Parkhead

Cross

Dumbarton

Road


Using Digimap GIS, the four areas in Glasgow City Centre where the monitoring equipment are in place

have been plotted, in addition to areas which may be particularly vital when considering the details of

the management strategy, for example hospitals and educational facilities.

The data gathered at each site can be analysed using the Scottish Government’s website for monitoring

Air Quality, scottishairquality.co.uk. Weekly levels will be consulted to demonstrate the trends in

concentrations of pollutant.

Using this information, the level of pollutant recorded at each, and therefore the level of exposure to

sensitive areas can be established, allowing a mitigation strategy to be developed. These pollutant

levels are outlined (dismissing pollutants not included in DEFRA’s list of key pollutants) in the site

profiles below, alongside the location of the site, measured pollutant,and a photograph of the

equipment used.

http://www.scottishairquality.co.uk/


As detailed in the weekly LAQM analysis, the sites in the City Centre AQMA all record high levels of

Nitrogen Dioxide, often exceeding the acceptable UK level of 40µg/m3.Furthermore, the levels of PM10

and PM2.5 occasionally exceed the threshold levels of 40µg.m3 and 12 μg.m3 respectively. (Scottish Air

Quality, 2016) (Full List of UK Standards found in Appendix 1)


The AQMA appears to line up well when overlaid with the high emission areas identified in Figure 2,

indicating that all sensitive areas in the AQMA are likely to require steps to be taken to manage

exposure, and to minimise health damage. The graphic from FOE Scotland indicates areas in red where

Nitrogen Dioxide emissions frequently exceed the UK acceptable threshold of 40µg/m3. (FOE, 2014)

Although Figure 3 suggests NO2 levels are reducing, there are substantial steps required to bring the

observed levels below that of the 40µg/m3 target. A Scottish Government study suggested that due to

the extent of the current emission concentrations, this target would not be met until at least 2020.

(Gov.uk, 2016)

Figure 2- Nitrogen Dioxide Exceedance Areas, Glasgow, FOE, 2014

Figure 3- Glasgow’s Nitrogen Dioxide Trends, Scottish Air Quality, 2015


The analysis suggests that all sensitive areas within the City Centre AQMA are likely to frequently

experience unacceptable levels of Nitrogen Dioxide, in addition to PM10 and PM2.5.

3.2 Grangemouth

Similarly, to Glasgow, the Grangemouth area was given AQMA status in 2005, as indicated by Figure

4. The two DEFRA Automatic and Non Automatic Monitoring Networks monitoring sites and

educational facilities are marked, in addition to further sensitive areas, in this case a football stadium

and nature park, where local emissions may be significant factors.

School/ Educational

Monitoring Facility

Sensitive Area

Figure 4- Grangemouth AQMA- Monitoring Facilities and Sensitive Areas (Digimap & LAQM Overlay), 2016

Site 1- Grangemouth Moray

Site 2- Grangemouth

School/ Educational

Monitoring Facility

Sensitive Area


Profiles have been created for each monitoring site within the Grangemouth AQMA, including the

location, equiipment used, pollutants monitored, and weekly levels of measured pollutant.

The emission sources and patterns are clearly different in Grangemouth than from a city environment

such as Glasgow’s. The nearby industrial plant releases emissions intermittently during industrial

processes, meaning that vast quantities of pollutant are likely to be released in short bursts, rather

than how vehicles would continuously emit pollutants. (Scottish Air Quality, 2016)

The levels of Nitrogen Dioxide recorded are relatively low in comparison with Glasgow’s AQMA due

to lower traffic emissions, but of particular concern at the Grangemouth AQMA were the high levels


of Sulphur Dioxide. As mentioned previously, this material is sourced from the combustion of coal and

oil at the industrial plant, and could lead to significant respiratory problems if not managed. (WHO,

2016)

As seen in the weekly data, the Sulphur Dioxide emissions are generally relatively low, but during high

intensity petrochemical processes, significant spikes in emissions can be seen. Fortunately, these

levels are below what the AQO considers a concerning volume, since both monitoring sites meet the

SO2 AQO objectives of fewer than 24 cases of 350µg/ m3 concentrations per year. (Scottish Air Quality,

2016)

Therefore, it can be evaluated that the local community, and the sensitive areas highlighted will likely

experience spikes in atmospheric levels of SO2, but these will not be high enough to cause significant

health damage. Furthermore, all other pollutants meet AQO objectives.

4. Public Risk Assessment

The level of compliance with existing international policy and standards was examined by looking at

the EU, UK and international standards for air quality against certain emitters, and determining how

effectively the implemented policy handles these key standards.

Considering the emission levels recorded in Glasgow, and comparing against the objectives set in the

Air Quality Strategy, produces Figure 6.

Figure 6- Comparison of Glasgow’s Pollutant Levels with AQO Standards, Excel 2016

Figure 5- Grangemouth Sulphur Dioxide Levels, DEFRA 2016

Pollutant Air Quality Strategy Objective

Benzene 1.03 µg/m3 16.25µg/m3

1,3-butadiene 0.08 µg/m3 Running annual mean > 2.25µg/m3

NO2 67 µg/m3 40 µg/m3

Lead 0.026 µg/m3 0.25µg/m3

PM10 29 µg/m3 Annual mean > 18µg/m3

PM2.5 23 µg/m3 12 µg/m3

CO 0.9 mg/m3 8-hour running mean > 10 mg/m3

Ozone 38 µg/m3 Daily maximum 8-hour running mean > 100mg/m3 cubed on more than 10 days

Sulphur Dioxide 350 µg m-3not to be exceeded more than 24 times a yearNot measured

Annual Hourly Mean


A similar table can be generated for Grangemouth’s emission levels in Figure 7. In this case, several

pollutants were determined to not be in significant concentrations by an Updating Screening and

Assessment study, so were not recorded. (Grangemouth Plant USA, 2015)

Figure 7- Comparison of Grangemouth’s Pollutant Levels with AQO Standards, Excel 2016

Grangemouth meets all objective standards required by the AQO, but with exceedances in Nitrogen

Dioxide and PM10 levels, clearly the AQMA in Glasgow’s City Centre does not fully comply with these.

Steps must be taken to re-examine policy, and consider where improvements can be made.

To consider the robustness of the policy used to develop the LAQM plan, feedback from industry

experts regarding the steps taken will be consulted. This feedback came from The Scottish

Government’s Consultation on Review of Local Air Quality Management in Scotland, raising concerns

from the subject of data accuracy to the overall methodology delivered. The four key subjects which

the experts felt would require further attention to improve the effectiveness of the LAQM strategy

were:

1. More coordination between LAQM and climate change policy

Several consultees felt that the LAQM and climate change policy have significant similarities,

but the strategies deployed often adversely affect each other. Therefore, the strategies

should be better coordinated to ensure that the strategies developed in both are sustainable

and effectively.

2. Consider shorter time frames for PM emission records to improve accuracy

Consultees discussed the possibility that health effects could be better understood if the PM emissions

were recorded using a shorter time window, since the current 24 hour and annual average records

could mask public health risks under particularly large emissions in short periods of time.

3. Consider Streamlining Reporting Process

The vast majority of consultees felt that lengthy and frequent reports are often not necessary for

certain local authorities, and should be compiled under a single annual report, where all relevant

information can be found, and all important details can be highlighted. With a streamlined and simple

approach to reporting air quality, the data can be more accessible, allowing an effective and

comprehensive plan to be developed.

Pollutant Air Quality Strategy Objective

Benzene 0.99 µg/m3 16.25µg/m3

1,3-butadiene 0.47 µg/m4 Running annual mean > 2.25µg/m3

NO2 18 µg/m3 40 µg/m3

Lead 0.25µg/m3

PM10 14 µg/m3 Annual mean > 18µg/m3

PM2.5 11 µg/m3 12 µg/m3

CO 0.2 mg/m3 8-hour running mean > 10 mg/m3

Ozone Daily maximum 8-hour running mean > 100mg/m3 cubed on more than 10 days

Sulphur Dioxide 248 µg/m3 350 µg m-3not to be exceeded more than 24 times a year

Not measured

Not measured

Annual Hourly Mean


4. Inconsistency in type of air quality monitoring devices used

In order to ensure the data recorded by the LAQM equipment is consistent and reliable, the type and

model of device used should be consistent throughout the authority, where differences in weather

and topography may affect readings.

In addition to the comments made by the consultees, there are other issues which may face the LAQM

strategy. Although several key pollutants have been considered, newly studied pollutants such as black

carbon have not been fully implemented into the action plan.

In addition to some pollutants being omitted from analysis, there is concern from some experts that

some pollutants may often be over regulated, meaning that the money spent on monitoring and

mitigating this pollutant may be better spent on addressing a pollutant which may be more harmful,

and potentially easier to manage.

5. Public Risk Management

Several programmes are used to monitor specific exposure levels in order to provide data for various

strategies derived from the Air Quality Objectives (AQO).

5.1 Glasgow

For Glasgow, information regarding these programmes will be sourced from the Updating and

Screening Assessment (USA) by Glasgow City Council, 2015, which comprehensively details how the

local authority monitors key pollutants, and the extent to which these are detected throughout

strategic monitoring locations. Furthermore, the document will allow an evaluation to be made

regarding the effectiveness of the mitigation techniques proposed.

The USA demonstrates the DEFRA automatic and non-automatic monitoring locations for the key

pollutants throughout the city, and delivers the findings of these studies. As previously mentioned,

the report finds that there are still excessive levels of PM10 and NO2 in the City Centre AQMA, but that

all areas beyond these areas have acceptable levels of pollutant under the AQO.

Furthermore, the report outlines the steps which have been taken to ensure that the local authority

complies with the AQO. These steps ensure that the local authorities follow all required steps to

minimise emissions from the following pollution categories:

Road Traffic – e.g. no streets with more than 5,000 vehicles per day

Other Transport- e.g. no location with stationary steam or diesel trains for 15 minutes or more

Industrial – e.g. no fuel storage facilities within the AQMA

Commercial and Domestic- e.g. no areas with significant solid fuel combustion within AQMA

Fugitive or Uncontrolled – e.g. no sources of fugitive PM within AQMA.

2015 Updating and Screening Assessment for Glasgow City Council, 2015

The report outlines the conclusions taken from the emission levels in 2015, and outlines the strategy

to continue to reduce these into the future.


With the NO2, PM2.5 and PM10 Annual Mean Objective exceeded several times within the City Centre

AQMA, and correct predictions that emission levels would fail to meet AQO levels by 2010, (Figures 8

and 9), a Local Action Plan was developed in 2004 (and updated in 2009) to try and bring the AQMA

in line with the rest of the city’s emission levels, meeting the AQO.

Seven key steps were defined, with aim of providing a robust strategy to change public behaviour,

increase travel efficiency, and reduce overall emission levels. These steps were:

1. Local Traffic Management

Completion of the M74 has improved traffic efficiency, and relieved congestion, minimising lag time

during travel and minimising emissions from vehicles. Reductions in the congestion has allowed focus

to be directed towards public transport, and improving the infrastructure for lower emission methods

of travel, such as cycle paths.

In the city centre, the possibility of a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) is currently being explored. In this area,

emphasis on pedestrian and bicycle travel would be made, and only public transport would be

permitted to travel on roads during certain times of day. Plans fell through to develop a trial area for

the 2014 Commonwealth Games in the city, but the council still hopes to make a LEZ in the city centre

a reality.

In addition, a strategy to improve traffic management with variable signage would reduce congestion.

2. Public Transport

Schemes to reduce traffic levels in the city, for example park and ride or bus corridors, would be

invested in. The emissions of the public transport vehicles themselves could then be reduced to

increase the use of low emission vehicles. The emission levels of the various bus operators will be

investigated, therefore developing a Quality Partnership Scheme, aiming to reduce the number of

buses which currently exceed European standards (85%, Local Action Plan, 2009). This scheme is

regulated under The Public Service Vehicles (Traffic Regulation Conditions), 2007, requiring that bus

operators improve emission levels to maintain licences.

Furthermore, incentivising healthier travel methods, such as walking or cycling would be investigated.

3. Parking and Fiscal Measures

Engine idling would be substantially cut down on using the Idling Vehicle Regulations 2005, allowing

the council to fine those needlessly idling engines in areas of high emissions. Although a relatively

small fraction of emissions derived from vehicles, it is believed that the £20 fixed fines delivered to

those not following idling laws will act as an incentive to switch off vehicles when not in use.

Figure 8- Predicted NO2 Levels for Glasgow, Local Action Plan 2004

Figure 9- Predicted PM10 Levels for Glasgow, Local Action Plan 2004


4. Other Air Quality Enforcement

Smoke control areas and an effective communication channel were developed to allow complaints

and comments to made where air quality could be improved.

5. Non Transport Based Emission Sources

Improvements were made in increasing the implementation of insulation energy efficient heating

systems to reduce fuel use, in addition to continuing to enforce environmental regulations to limit

industrial emissions. Significant benefit is expected to be derived from local authority plans to require

a detailed air quality assessment from all proposed large scale developments in the city. This

assessment will become part of the planning permission, and will lead to reductions in emission levels

where high levels of emission will require a mitigation strategy.

In addition, efforts have been made in the construction sector to minimise dust emissions by wetting

surfaces, and preventing burning of demolition material in sensitive areas.

6. Leading by Example

By setting a good example of efficiency and low emissions, the local authority would influence the

public to change behaviours. The change in practice related to increased use of alternative fuel

sources, emission testing council vehicles, and proposing an environmentally friendly travel plan for

all staff members. In addition to the 2000 council operated vehicles, Glasgow’s 1400 taxis and 2700

private hire vehicles will be expected to install catalytic converters, complemented by increasing the

frequency of emission inspections from once annually to every six months. This action will remedy the

98% of private hire vehicles which currently exceed the Euro III emission standards.

7. Education and Awareness Raising

Improved communication with the public, in addition to events such as “Walk to School Week” and

“Car Free Day” would raise awareness of key issues, leading to changes in behaviour to reduce

emissions. Continued monitoring of emissions, and public accessibility to data would increase public

engagement, perhaps influencing behaviours.

5.2 Grangemouth

For Grangemouth, the Local Air Quality Management Grangemouth Air Quality Management Area

Action Plan will be consulted. In a similar fashion to the USA carried out in Glasgow, the report will

determine how the local authority is monitoring key pollutants, and how it plans to mitigate the

damage from these emissions.

The Grangemouth Action Plan took particular interest in reducing the SO2 levels in 15 minute intervals,

due to the high volume of emission which could be emitted at once during chemical processes.

The Action Plan could focus efforts almost exclusively on the industrial process emissions, rather than

where Glasgow would have to incorporate multiple sources of emission into the mitigation strategy.


In 2013, the Tail Gas Unit was installed by Petroineos at a cost of £32 million at the Grangemouth

Industrial Plant to reduce the process cost, and increase overall yield. This system included Sulphur

recovery feeds, which significantly reduced the Sulphur Dioxide emissions from the plant, as can be

seen by the reduction in exceedance levels in Figure 10. All sites now meet the SO2 15-minute interval

objective.

This installation had the effect of the AQMA meeting AQO levels of Sulphur Dioxide and other

pollutant. The AQMA is proposed to remain, simply to ensure that standards remain in place, but the

emission levels show an encouraging trend for the area.

The LAQM report, and a further USA in2015, proposed that to ensure standards remain high, the

following steps should be taken:

1. Continue AQMA status for Grangemouth until exceedance levels are at a lower level

2. Develop a traffic management plan to further reduce emissions from vehicular

sources

3. Update SO2 analyser at Grangemouth Moray site to continue accurate monitoring

4. Produce an Air Quality Report for the Scottish Government, indicating areas of

progress, and potential areas of improvement

In addition to the recommended steps, the local authority pledged to upgrade 20% of its aging fleet

of council vehicles and school buses, as well as enforcing emissions testing for all vehicles in the area.

Several charging points were installed to incentivise the use of electric vehicles in the area, in addition

to green fuel points supplying alternative fuel such as biodiesel or bio alcohols.

To tackle congestion, feasibility studies were conducted to investigate changes to the infrastructure

and speed limits of the town centre

It is likely that emissions will likely decrease upon the closure of Longannet Power Station in March

2016, Scotland’s largest source of climate emissions. (BBC, 2015)

However, recent news has reported that Grangemouth will shortly begin to receive shale ethane gas

imports from the USA, meaning that emissions from the facility’s previously closed down KG ethylene

cracker will significantly increase. (The Guardian, 2016)

Figure 10- Sulphur Dioxide AQO Exceedance Cases 2009-2013, LAQM Action Plan & USA, 2015


Therefore, it is essential that the Local Authority devises a suitable plan to ensure this potentially vast

increase in emissions is managed suitably to ensure the local population does not experience harmful

increases in exposure levels.

6. Conclusions The two case studies have been comprehensively analysed, looking specifically at the steps taken in:

hazard identification, exposure assessment, risk assessment, and risk management by each to

minimise public exposure to hazardous emissions.

Glasgow’s Air Quality Management Area has been carefully identified, and monitored to establish key

pollutants. Using this information, a strategy to examine the risk to the public, and to mitigate the

level of exposure to harmful pollutants, has been developed. At the time of writing, the strategy is still

not meeting Air Quality Objectives relating to Nitrogen Dioxide and PM10 in the City Centre’s AQMA.

However, improvements continue to be made to the concentration of harmful pollutants in the city’s

air, and continued implementation of policy developed using the Local Air Quality Management Plan

will aim to bring recorded values closer to the objective targets.

Grangemouth’s Air Quality Management Area also allows the identification of key pollutants which

may put the public at risk. The Local Air Quality Management Grangemouth Air Quality Management

Area Action Plan outlines how these pollutants should be managed, through carefully analysing the

public exposure, and how this risk can be mitigated. At the time of writing, the Grangemouth AQMA

is meeting all Air Quality Objectives, so to ensure these standards remain, and continue to improve,

further enhancements to the strategy should be delivered. With increases in emissions likely in 2016

due to US shale gas imports, preparation should be made to manage public exposure levels, protecting

the health of the community.


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at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-33970594 [Accessed 1 Apr.

2016].

Bros, Q. (2016). Air Pollution 2014 Graphics | Friends of the Earth Scotland. [online] Foe-

scotland.org.uk. Available at: http://www.foe-scotland.org.uk/air-pollution-2014-graphics

[Accessed 28 Mar. 2016].

Cordis.europa.eu. (2016). European Commission: CORDIS: Projects & Results Service: Sulphur

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8. Appendices Appendix 1- European Directives