Air quality
Poor air quality is the largest environmental risk to public health in the UK with short-term exposure (over hours or days) to elevated levels of air pollution causing a range of health impacts. Air pollution is a complex mix of particles and gases of both natural and human origin. Particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are both major components of urban air pollution.
Air quality can be improved by reducing car usage, utilising public transport as well as walking and cycling, known as ‘active travel’.
The Council carries out regular reviews and assessments of air quality in its area against standards and objectives set out by the national air quality Strategy. You can find out more here.