Outdoor airand your health

Recreational water

    Gases or tiny particles can pollute the air. When you breathe the air, you may also breathe in pollution. Pollution can come from things like:

  • traffic
  • wood heaters
  • emissions from industry
  • emissions from agricultural burning
  • natural events like dust events
  • planned burns
  • bushfires.

Sources of air pollution in the Port Phillip region

Source: Future air quality in Victoria, EPA Victoria, 2013 (publication 1535) (excluding bushfires, planned burns and agricultural burns) Note: Units measured in average daily PM2.5 emissions (tonnes/day) by source group, 2006 data
Data chart displaying sources of air pollution in the Port Phillip region.
Source: Future air quality in Victoria, EPA Victoria, 2013 Note: Units measured in average daily PM2.5 emissions by source group, 2006 data

The effect on your health

Air pollution can move deep into the lungs and can even enter the bloodstream. This can play a part in heart or lung problems, cancer and even premature death. Some of us, such as people with a heart or lung condition (including asthma), pregnant women, children and older people are more sensitive to air pollution.

How you can protect yourself from air pollution

  • EPA AirWatch has more information about current and forecasted local air quality. We also provide general health advice on EPA AirWatch. You can also follow us on Twitter for air quality updates.
  • Leave smoky areas if possible or stay indoors with the windows closed.
  • If you are sensitive to air pollution reduce your exposure and have a treatment plan in case you are exposed to air pollution.
  • Learn about simple steps to protect your health.

How you can reduce your impact on our air

  • Don’t burn green waste or other rubbish.
  • Find out how to best operate your wood heater or switch from a wood heater to electric heating.
  • Take public transport, cycle or walk instead of driving.
  • Keep your car well-tuned and maintained. Where possible, turn off the engine when not moving.