Strategies for Improving Indoor Air Quality

Strategies and products aimed at reducing pollutants and improving the air we breathe indoors.

Air Quality Improvement FAQ

Image credit: epa.gov

How does the UK improve air quality?

The UK has a longstanding framework to improve air quality, consisting of 2 main pillars – emissions and concentrations. Emissions are a measure of how much pollution is released into the air, and concentrations are the levels at which pollution is present in the air.

What is the new air quality strategy?

It provides a framework to enable local authorities to make the best use of their powers and make improvements for their communities. This revised strategy supersedes the air quality strategy: Volume 1 in England only. In Northern Ireland and Scotland, the strategy (Volume 1) remains in force.

What will the government do to improve air quality?

The government will align air quality reporting zones with local government boundaries, to empower councils, increase transparency and accountability. The government will work with local authorities to improve the UK-Air website and other air quality web services.

How can we improve air quality?

Call for change - Call on local leaders to adopt national air quality standards that meet WHO guidelines. Support policies that strengthen emissions standards and provide incentives for purchase of cleaner vehicles, low-energy appliances and energy-efficient housing. 2. Minimize your exposure

What are global air quality guidelines?

The World Health Organization (WHO) published updated Global Air Quality Guidelines in September 2021 covering Particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10 ), ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide. They provide guidance on thresholds and limits for key air pollutants that pose health risks.

What are the new air quality guidelines?

By striving to achieve these guideline levels, countries will be both protecting health as well as mitigating global climate change. WHO’s new guidelines recommend air quality levels for 6 pollutants, where evidence has advanced the most on health effects from exposure.

How can local authorities improve air quality?

Local authorities should ensure air quality is considered within Local Transport Plans, in line with guidance published by the government. Local authorities should consider rolling out traffic management schemes using existing powers to improve air quality, whilst taking into account the views of local residents and businesses.

How many projects are being funded to improve air quality?

44 projects will receive funding as part of wider Government action to protect public health and the environment by improving air quality. Local authorities across England have been granted almost £11 million in the latest round of funding for projects that will improve air quality.