Air quality is a critical determinant of respiratory health, and poor air quality and pollution contribute significantly to the development and worsening of respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD.
Our advocacy on air quality and air pollution is specifically tailored to supporting the unique environmental and health challenges in Western Australia, ensuring that everyone in our state has the right to breathe clean, healthy air.
Our key areas of advocacy can be found below:
Advocating for Cleaner Air in Western Australia: Western Australia faces specific air quality challenges, from industrial pollution in the Pilbara and Kwinana regions to traffic-related pollution in Perth. We support policies and initiatives that address these local sources of pollution.
Supporting Transition to Clean Energy: The state’s reliance on fossil fuels, including coal and natural gas, contributes significantly to air pollution. We support Western Australia’s transition to clean, renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels, we can lower pollution levels and improve air quality across the state, particularly in areas most affected by industrial activities.
Focus on High-Risk Groups in WA: Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution in Western Australia, especially in urban and industrial areas. We advocate for targeted measures to protect these high-risk groups, including establishing clean air zones around schools, hospitals, and residential areas.
Public Health Warnings and Alerts: Western Australia’s diverse climate, including bushfire-prone areas, makes timely public health warnings essential. We support the development and dissemination of air quality alerts during periods of poor air quality, such as during bushfires or high-pollution days. These alerts should provide clear guidance on how Western Australians, particularly those at higher risk, can protect themselves from harmful exposure.
Supporting Air Quality Monitoring Across WA: Accurate and timely data on air quality is essential for effective advocacy and policy-making in Western Australia. We advocate for the expansion and enhancement of air quality monitoring networks across the state, particularly in regions with high pollution levels, such as the Perth metropolitan area and industrial zones. This data should be publicly accessible and used to inform state and local policy decisions.
Promoting Research on Health Impacts in WA: We support ongoing research into the health impacts of air pollution specific to Western Australia, including its effects on respiratory health in both urban and rural settings. Understanding the local links between air pollution and lung diseases is crucial for developing effective interventions and advocacy strategies tailored to the needs of our state.
Raising Awareness on Air Quality in WA: Public education is key to improving air quality in Western Australia. We advocate for campaigns that raise awareness about the sources and health impacts of air pollution in our state, and what individuals and communities can do to reduce their exposure and contribute to cleaner air.
Respiratory Care WA is dedicated to advocating for initiatives that improve air quality and reduce air pollution, recognising the direct impact these factors have on the respiratory health of Western Australians.
Our advocacy is focused on addressing the specific challenges faced in our state, from industrial pollution to urban air quality, and on protecting vulnerable populations.
By supporting these efforts, we aim to ensure that everyone in Western Australia can breathe clean, healthy air, free from the harmful effects of pollution, supported by the services and expertise of Respiratory Care WA.
36 Ord Street, West Perth, WA 6005
Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 4:30pm (excl. public holidays)
Respiratory Care WA acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures, and Elders past, present and emerging.
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