Scientists link quarry pollution with respiratory problems and cancer

Scientists in the United Arab Emirates have linked local quarry pollution with respiratory problems as well as some cancers and psychological disorders, according to The National.

The poor air quality has been caused by white dust particles which fill the heavy air created by a cement quarry. The quarry is located only two kilometres from the northern coastal village of Khor Khwair, and has been found to increase health risks in local residents.

Members of the Federal National Council raised fresh concerns in a report where UAE University found a link between air pollution and breathing problems, as well as some cancers and psychological disorders. They found that 40 per cent of children and 15 per cent of the nation's population suffered from asthma due to the poor air quality.

Minister of environment and water, Dr Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, has hit back at the claims, saying there is no scientific proof of the link. But many residents and researchers disagree. The government took action in 2008 to stop quarries generating clouds of dust and toxins, but the legislation has not been turned into action, according to the  testaments of local residents, who say conditions are worsening.

Posted by Claire Manning