YOUR SAY: Air pollution 'kills 1600 in Australian capital cities every year'

Air pollution is killing 1600 people a year in Australia's capital cities, a major report has warned.

The National Environment Protection Council (NEPC) has estimated residents in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth lose up to 72 days from their life expectancy due to air pollution, as well as suffering an increased risk of heart conditions and asthma.

However, the authors of the study have said Australia's air pollution is low compared to the rest of the world.

The Environment Department has issued a proposal for reducing air pollution around Australia, which is open to public submissions until October 10.

Online submissions can be made to the government here.

How important do you think it is to reduce air pollution in our capital cities? Let us know in the comments below.