The main pollutants of concern in the UK are particulate matter (PM), oxides of nitrogen, and ground level ozone and ammonia.  Road transport, large fuel-burning plants such as power stations, and agriculture are key sources for one or more of these pollutants.

The economic cost from the impacts of air pollution in the UK is estimated at £9-19 billion every year. This is comparable to the economic cost of obesity (over £10 billion). Poor air quality is generally associated with poorer areas in England, which are often urban areas close to busy roads.

Health effects of air pollution

Estimates indicate that air pollution reduces life expectancy in the UK by an average of six months.  The most important air pollutant in terms of health effects is PM – particles emitted from vehicle exhausts, chimneys or formed in the air from reactions between other pollutants. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises there is no safe exposure level to PM. For people with lung and heart conditions, elevations in particulate air pollution can worsen their symptoms.

The short term health effects of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) are also well established. At higher concentrations it can cause irritation of the lungs and can exacerbate existing lung conditions including asthma. However it is unlikely that such high levels of NO₂ will be reached in the UK. Ground level ozone (O₃) is formed when other pollutants react in sunlight and can cause breathing problems and reduced lung function. 

• The Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Pollutants (COMEAP) provides advice on all matters concerning the effects of air pollutants on health.

Impacts of air pollution on the natural environment

Air pollution can also affect plants and animals in the natural environment, impacting on biodiversity and sensitive environments. It can also reduce agricultural crop yields.

Links between air quality and climate change actions are critical; many of the actions to mitigate against climate change will also reduce air pollution in the long term.

• More information about the health and environmental impacts of air pollution and research
• Analysis of costs and benefits of air quality policies, and tools to assess economic impacts of air pollution

The UK Air Information Resource has information on current air pollution levels, pollution forecasts and monitoring of air quality.

• UK-AIR website