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Wednesday 14 June 2017
Findings from a survey of Otago people about their home heating attitudes and preferences will be incorporated into a strategy being developed by the Otago Regional Council to address air quality issues in the region.
The survey of 400 people was undertaken by Key Research last winter, to assess perceptions of air pollution and better understand home heating methods in Central Otago towns.
Some of the findings were:
Wood is the most commonly used type of fuel (95%) in an enclosed burner or open fire, with coal being used by just 9%.
Residents living in uninsulated homes spend approximately $321 on average a month to heat their homes, compared to residents in insulated homes who spend $251.
The survey results indicated that having heating that is ‘good for the environment’ is less important to respondents than:
Most respondents associate convenience with electricity, and affordability with enclosed burners.
ORC director policy planning and resource management Fraser McRae said this was all useful feedback which would provide valuable input into an air strategy the council is developing.
The strategy would outline proposals to manage air quality and reduce its harmful effects, particularly in Central Otago. It would focus on how ORC intends to work with key stakeholders and the wider community to ensure good air quality and that the requirements of the National Environmental Standard for Air Quality, which sets guaranteed minimum levels of health protection for New Zealanders, are met.
The full survey results are available at: http://www.orc.govt.nz/Meetings-Consultations-and-Events/Council-meetings-and-Agendas/ under the heading June Agendas and Reports.
For further information contact
Fraser McRae
Director policy planning and resource management
ORC
Ph 0800 474082 or 0274 900903
ORC communications contact
Mark Peart
Team Leader Communications – Channels
Ph 0800 474082 or 027 5312620
Email: mark.peart@orc.govt.nz