Sources of sulphur oxides in air

Key Points | Report Card | Technical Information | Data

In the Waikato region, vehicles, home heating and industry are the main sources of air pollution. This indicator estimates the proportions of sulphur oxides going into the air from each of these sources. High concentrations of sulphur oxides in the air affect the environment by reacting with water to form the 'acid' found in acid rain. They can also irritate people’s eyes and breathing.

This indicator shows that:

• Local industry is an important source of sulphur oxides in Te Awamutu and Putaruru.
• In Tokoroa, Taupo, Te Kuiti, Waihi, Matamata, Ngaruawahia, and Turangi, motor vehicles are the main source of sulphur oxides.
• In Hamilton, industry and home heating are almost equal sources of sulphur oxide.

• All data were collected between 2004 and 2007.
• View this graph’s data.
• Find out more about air quality around the Waikato region.

Updated 16 December 2008

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