People across the UK can now sign up to receive free emails or texts warning them of high air pollution in their area, the Government has announced. The new system operates on an opt-in basis, allowing individuals to select a location – such as their home, workplace or local park – and receive an alert when air pollution is high or forecast to be high in that area.
How the alert system works
The service tracks five key air pollutants harmful to health: particulate matters PM2.5 and PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3) and sulphur dioxide (SO2). These pollutants can affect everyone but can also worsen lung conditions and asthma, which cost the NHS millions of pounds each year to treat.
Officials said the service delivers on the Government’s commitment to improve access to air pollution information and help people protect their health in the environmental improvement plan. It also forms part of wider Government action to tackle air pollution, including reforming areas like simpler industrial permits and consulting on tightening emissions standards for new wood burning appliances.
Government and health officials respond
Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle said: “We want everyone to have access to clear, reliable information about the air they breathe. This new service will make it easier for people to understand air pollution in their local area and take practical steps to protect their health, particularly those living with conditions such as asthma.
“Better access to air quality information is another way this government is tackling air pollution and protecting people’s health.”
Sir Chris Whitty, England’s chief medical officer, said: “Air pollution is an extremely important, solvable health problem that causes ill health throughout the life course, from poor pregnancy outcomes through childhood lung disease to causing long-term health conditions including cancers, heart disease and stroke.
“The health impacts are greatest for the most vulnerable – children, pregnant women and people with pre-existing cardiovascular or lung conditions.”
People can sign up for alerts and check air quality information through Gov.UK.
