Katestone Environmental was commissioned by Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water to conduct a review of coal mining activities in the Greater Metropolitan Region (GMR) of the state and review international best practice measures to prevent and/or minimise emissions of particulate matter from coal mining.

Based on findings and conclusions the study suggests undertaking a review of the adequacy and effectiveness of existing Total Suspended Particulate Matter (TSP) and dust deposition criteria in avoiding adverse impacts on human health and amenity. It also suggests considering within the review whether PM2.5 criteria should be adopted and revise the Approved Methods for the Modelling and Assessment of Air Pollutants in NSW.

The draft report and details on how to submit a comment can be found at www.environment.nsw.gov.au/air/co alminingNSW.htm.

People have until Monday, February 7, to comment.