Member Article

Air Pollution Improving Slowly

Urban air pollution has not increased in the last year, while rural pollution levels have lowered slightly in the same time, according to the latest Government statistics. In 2005 there were on average 22 days of moderate or higher air pollution in urban areas, compared to 59 in 1993.

In addition, the UK is continuing to meet its 2003 national air quality objectives for carbon monoxide, 1,3 butadiene, benzene and lead, as set out in the Air Quality Strategy. However, preliminary results show that the 2005 nitrogen dioxide and 2004 particles objectives have not been met across some parts of the UK, particularly in major urban centres and along busy roads, primarily due to road traffic emissions. The 2005 ozone objective have also not been met in some areas.

Ben Bradshaw, Local Environment Minister, said: “Air pollution affects people’s health and their quality of life. In general we continue to make progress but more needs to be done to tackle pollutant concentrations, particularly nitrogen dioxide, particles and ozone. “International, national and local action to tackle air pollution is working, and we are reviewing our Air Quality Strategy to find potential extra measures to generate health benefits and move us closer to meeting our objectives. “Local authorities have an important role to play in helping the government cut pollution and make our air cleaner, and many of them are implementing measures or developing action plans. However, a number of authorities in England have fallen behind the rest. Local people have a right to expect their councils to do whatever they can to ensure cleaner air.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .