WOOD heaters have been banned in the new Molonglo Valley development, with the exception of Wright.

Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development, Simon Corbell, made the announcement following the release of the 2011 ACT Air Quality Report today.

“While the 2011 Air Quality Report highlights the excellent air quality in Canberra, annual monitoring has identified that smoke from domestic wood heaters is the most significant source of air pollution in Canberra,” Mr Corbell said.

“This year?s report shows four breaches of the reporting standard, which occurred in the months of May and July 2011, during the colder months because of wood heater emissions.

“Following a planning study of the air quality impacts associated with the development of the Molonglo Valley, wood heaters will be prohibited in this area, excluding the suburb of Wright. Similar restrictions are already successfully operating in Dunlop and East O’Malley.

“We know that wood smoke can be a problem in the ACT which is why the Government recently launched the ‘Burn Right Tonight’ campaign to raise the public awareness of correct wood heater operation.”

The campaign complements existing programs which involve enforcement activities, the licensing of firewood merchants and the wood heater  replacement program.

The Government has also allocated money in 2012/2013 Budget for an ambient air quality monitoring station in Belconnen.

“This will give us a better understanding of the air pollution level and will continue to implement an integrated program to address air quality issues relating to wood smoke,” Mr Corbell said.