Air pollution in the Upper Hunter continues to be dominated by PM10 dust linked to coal mining, with 311 air quality alerts recorded in 2025. The figure is significantly higher than the 207 alerts in 2024, which saw a wetter spring, but similar to 2023 when dry conditions pushed alerts to 322.
The PM10 dust particles are small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs, causing respiratory and cardiovascular issues like coughing, wheezing, heart attacks, and reduced lung function.
The worst year on record was 2019 with more than 1,000 alerts, followed by 2018 with over 800. In contrast, the very wet year of 2022 saw only 39 alerts, while 2021 recorded 116.
Warkworth was the worst-performing monitor last year with 58 alerts, followed by Mount Thorley with 33 and Muswellbrook NW with 29. Monitors further west, such as Aberdeen, also saw increases compared to previous years.
Since the closure of Liddell Power Station near Muswellbrook in April 2023, PM2.5 levels have dropped. PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter in the air, microscopic solids or liquid droplets 2.5 micrometers or smaller, about 30 times thinner than a human hair, posing significant health risks as they penetrate deep into lungs and bloodstream.
So far this year, 21 alerts have been recorded.
The NSW Environment Protection Authority says it continued its ‘Bust the Dust’ campaign into December, conducting 15 unannounced inspections using drones and undercover vehicles. Residents concerned about air quality are encouraged to contact the Environment Line on 131 555.
