All 10 Greater Manchester authorities are on board with a University of Manchester study to assess the impact on air pollution of domestic burning.

The important initiative is backed by a government grant and is a part of a bid by these authorities improve the health of residents across the region.

The study asks participants about practices from the use of burners inside the home to the use of bonfires outside the home.

These produce particulates which are known as PM2.5 and which are linked to a rising risk of conditions such as asthma.

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Dr Emily Matthews, an atmospheric scientist at the University of Manchester and the lead researcher, said: "This study will help to gain an insight into how people are burning fuels at homes in Greater Manchester. We will use our findings to help to raise awareness about the impact of burning fuels on everyone's health through campaigns and community engagement. 

"Ultimately we hope to help to reduce the emissions from domestic burning and to improve our environment for everyone."

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Eamonn O'Brien, the leader of Bury Council and the lead for clean air on the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, said: "We are delighted to be collaborating with the University of Manchester on this initiative. Combining the expertise at the university with our understanding of local needs we are confident we can work towards a healthier future for our community.

"We know in recent years with the cost-of-living crisis some people have looked for alternative ways to stay warm, especially when the colder weather arrives. But if people do choose to burn this winter, we want them to be aware of the impact it could be having on their health and the health of others, the rules in place and what they can do to reduce their impact."

The study runs until next month and there is a chance to win one of five food vouchers.

To contribute go to qualtrics.manchester.ac.uk/jfe/form/SV_9Y7CvV7NNFPfc7s.
 

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.