Traffic tests for something in the air

FOR the next 12 months VicRoads will be monitoring traffic noise and air quality along the Cranbourne section of the South Gippsland Highway.
The tests are currently underway around Melbourne and will be used a part of a VicRoads environmental performance program.
Melbourne is the first city in Australia to take part in such a study which will align the state with international best practice.
VicRoads’s Dr Helen Murphy said the long-term trends in pollution and noise emissions will be analysed to assist with the planning and design of future roads and upgrades.
“When selecting the most appropriate locations, we also looked at the availability of traffic data, equipment security and the lack of interference from other noise and pollution sources,” Dr Murphy said.
During the monitoring, air quality will be assessed by measuring the amount of nitrogen dioxide in traffic related emissions.
Traffic noise will be measured using state-of-the-art noise monitoring equipment.