The Environmental Department of Kilkenny County Council is taking a strong stance against the illegal sale of bituminous coal and is committed to implementing the Solid Fuel Regulations 2022 to improve air quality and protect public health in the community.
Bituminous coal, known for its high sulphur content and harmful emissions when burned, is a major contributor to air pollution and poor air quality in urban areas. Despite the ban on its sale for residential use, illegal vendors continue to distribute this polluting fuel, endangering the health of residents and jeopardizing environmental efforts to reduce emissions.
In response to this illegal activity, the Environmental Department, in collaboration with enforcement teams, has launched a targeted campaign to crackdown on the sale and distribution of bituminous coal within Kilkenny County. Through rigorous monitoring, inspections, and enforcement actions, the Council is determined to hold accountable those who defy the regulations and compromise air quality standards.
Francis Brophy, Executive Engineer in Environmental Enforcement at Kilkenny County Council, states, “The illegal sale of bituminous coal poses a significant threat to public health and the environment. We are stepping up our enforcement efforts to identify and prosecute individuals and businesses engaged in this unlawful activity. Compliance with the Solid Fuel Regulations is not optional – it is essential for safeguarding the well-being of our community. Some homeowners are sourcing bituminous (high smoke) coal from outside Kilkenny, specifically from Northern Ireland. This is not only illegal in respect of trade and sale, but also a major contributor to air pollution and significantly impacts people’s health especially those who suffer from asthma, COPD, emphysema and other underlying health conditions”.
The Solid Fuel Regulations 2022, which build upon previous measures to address air pollution from solid fuel burning, set out stricter controls on the quality and composition of fuels used for heating purposes. By transitioning to cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as low-sulphur coal, wood pellets, or eco-friendly briquettes, residents can help reduce emissions and protect air quality in Kilkenny.
Mags Whelan, Environmental Awareness Officer for Kilkenny County Council, emphasises the importance of public cooperation in complying with the regulations. She states, “As we implement the Solid Fuel Regulations 2022, we urge residents to make sustainable choices when it comes to heating their homes. By opting for cleaner fuels and energy-efficient practices, we can all play a part in creating a healthier environment for ourselves and future generations.”
The Council’s enforcement teams are actively conducting inspections and investigations to ensure that retailers and consumers adhere to the legal requirements regarding solid fuels. Non-compliance with the regulations may result in penalties, fines, or legal action, as the Council is committed to upholding environmental laws and protecting air quality standards.
Residents are encouraged to report any instances of illegal bituminous coal sales or non-compliance with the Solid Fuel Regulations to the Environmental Department for prompt action. You can contact a member of the Environmental team on 056-7794470 or make an environmental complaint via the council’s website: www.kilkennycoco.ie/environment
By working together, we can combat air pollution, safeguard public health, and build a cleaner, greener future for Kilkenny.
For more information on the Solid Fuel Regulations 2022 and air quality initiatives in Kilkenny, please visit the Kilkenny County Council’s official website at www.kilkennycoco.ie.
