Aired on 15 Feb, this 30 minute radio programme takes an in-depth look at Enderby Wharf and our government’s failure to take responsibility. Greenwich is already a pollution hotspot thanks to the Blackwall tunnel. Yet when planning permission was sought for the terminal, astonishingly, no one considered the effect of cruise liners running their auxiliary engines. It’s a massive mistake that no one seems willing to acknowledge. Permission should have been refused. 1 in 5 premature deaths in the borough are already cause by pollution. Recent studies also show it can also lead to problems with dementia and cognition as well as causing untold suffering to people with asthma. It also prevents unborn children from developing properly in the womb. Happily there is a solution. Plug the ships in to shoreside power. It’s not impossible or unrealistic. The Port of Los Angeles has the technology for ships from all over the world to plug into onshore power. Since it was introduced results have been dramatic: • They’ve had a 97% reduction in sulphur oxides • 85% reduction in diesel particulate matter • Little over 50% reduction in NOx. Their coastline covers 43 miles and handles thousands of cruise and cargo ships. By comparison Greenwich is small fry. Onshore power is not beyond the realms of possibility. The only problem is cost. Unfortunately, says campaigner Ralph Hardwick, "Someone’s saying 'We don’t want to spend the money.'” And to add insult to injury, no one would talk to the programme makers. That includes: • Land owners, Morgan Stanley • Developers, London City Cruise Port • The GLC • Greenwich Council • DEFRA minister, Therese Coffey We’re failing to meet EU pollution standards. Something has to be done to stop diesel death now. Not in 20 years time. Now.