People across the UK can now sign up for a new air quality alerts service, giving them an easy way to check local pollution levels through accurate, up-to-date information.
Millions of people live with conditions made worse by poor air quality, and treating lung conditions and asthma costs the NHS millions of pounds each year.
The new service allows people to select an area – such as their home, workplace or local park – and receive an alert by SMS or email when air pollution is forecast to be high.
By bringing air quality information together in one trusted, accessible place, the service gives people a one stop shop to stay informed about pollution levels in the areas that matter most to them.
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.
Air pollution can affect everyone, but some people are particularly vulnerable to its effects, including people with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Having timely information about pollution levels can help people make informed decisions about their activities and take steps to reduce their exposure.
The service tracks five key pollutants: Particulate Matter (PM2.5), Particulate Matter (PM10), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Ozone (O3) and Sulphur dioxide (SO2).
