EIC resubmits letter after incorrect claim

The Environmental Industry Commission (EIC), which represents diesel particulate filter manufacturers, has resubmitted its letter to the minister of transport Jim Fitzpatrick following complaints that the original contained inaccurate figures.

EIC public affairs manager Danny Stevens said the incorrect figures were included by mistake and there was no attempt to exaggerate the threat of emissions from plant.

Having been criticised for the error, Stevens said: "It is absurd to refer to an organisation that lobbies for the policies to improve air quality as 'scurrilous'." He maintained that "demolition and construction sites are a significant contributing factor and it is critical that every available step is taken to ensure that harmful emissions from these sites are kept at a minimum".

Tim Faithfull, from the plant manufacturers body the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), said his members fully support improving air quality on construction sites. But that must include better working practices and control of dust as well as reducing engine emissions wherever possible.

"In truth, the emissions from [construction] machines make a minute incremental contribution to air pollution," he said.

New plant now emits 50% less particulate than equivalent models four years ago and this will reduce further - by at least 90% - from 2011.

National Federation of Demolition Contractors national secretary Howard Button said: "Our members replace their machines regularly so they are using the latest technology and retrofitting DPF would be expensive. With the current price of fuel and the effects of the credit crunch, it is something the industry can ill-afford at the moment."

On the creation of dust during demolition he said: "There is no easy way to control it, but we are still looking."