Green Living: When the dust settles

More likely, however, it's tonnes of volcanic ash which have drifted our way from Iceland.

Every plane in England was grounded, which is pretty much unprecedented since 9/11. It can be hard to fathom how such a thing could have so dramatic an effect, before you even begin to try pronouncing it (Eyjafjallajokull, fact fans), but this kind of geological event can have a huge impact on aviation.

At altitude the volcanic particles can cause engines to seize up, and some volcano experts say disruption could continue for six months, or perhaps even years.

Where's the green story here? Well, ironically this eruption is a bit like a double whammy in the planet's fight back against global warming.

Aviation, especially at high altitude, is a large and growing contributor to CO2 emissions, and a few weeks of respite will be a welcome relief. A change in travel patterns should also allow travellers to investigate other, less harmful, transport options.

As well as the effect on our man-made emissions, the volcanic eruption should also help to reduce global warming by reflecting sunlight back into space. This can be good in small doses, but too thick a cloud could result in a nuclear winter-style event. While the volcano might not provide an excuse for any runners on Sunday who look out of breath, it might prompt some to think about the future.

Here's hoping, when the dust settles, we can all look for alternatives to hopping on a plane.

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