OUT OF eight coal samples obtained for testing by Limerick City and County Council, seven (87 per cent) were found to be in breach of the sulphur limit laid out in the Air Pollution Act.
A total of 25 coal samples from various solid fuel outlets were obtained by the six local authorities in Limerick, Clare, Tipperary, Offaly, Laois, and Meath on a pro-rata (population) basis and analysed for sulphur content by an accredited laboratory in the UK.
The burning of high sulphur coal products is known to create both air pollution and contribute to respiratory problems, as well as increased levels of fine particulate matter in the air which can lead to cardiopulmonary disorders and strikes.
Analysis showed that 18 of the 25 samples (72 per cent) exceeded the prescribed sulphur limit, underpinned by the Air Pollution Act 1987 (Solid Fuels) Regulations 2022.
Under these Regulations, coal products and manufactured solid fuels must have a sulphur content of less than two per cent by weight on a dry ash-free basis. The limit will reduce to one per cent from September 2025, subject to a market assessment.
A spokesperson for Limerick City and County Council confirmed that the breaches were of serious concern and that it was engaging with the solid fuel trade.
The council is also collaborating with the Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications and the Environmental Protection Agency in relation to the findings.
The council has advised that preparations are in train for the consortium to undertake a further sampling round in spring 2024.
