To ask the Scottish Executive whether it considers that the Air Quality Screening Tool for Biomass Combustion in Scotland as identified in the report prepared for the Scottish Government entitled Measurements and Modelling of Fine Particulate Emission (PM10 and PM2.5) from Wood-Burning Biomass Boilers provides an appropriate basis for environmental health officers and planners to advise on the individual and cumulative particulate impacts of the wood-burning biomass energy elements of planning applications.

Yes, the screening tool developed in the report is being incorporated into technical guidance for air quality reporting for local authorities to determine the cumulative impact of biomass boilers on fine particulate matter levels in urban areas. It can also be referred to for advice by local authorities on reducing any local impacts of biomass boilers on fine particulate matter levels in rural areas with regards to a minimum stack height.