UK Air Pollution Falls 30-35% but Ozone Increases 17% Exceeding Safety Limits

Over the past decade, the UK has seen significant improvements in air quality, with nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels dropping by about 35% and PM2.5 fine particulate matter decreasing by roughly 30%, largely due to reductions in traffic emissions and the adoption of electric vehicles. Despite these gains, pollution levels still frequently exceed World Health Organization targets, with NO₂ surpassing limits on an average of 40 days per year and PM2.5 on 22 days. In contrast, ground-level ozone (O₃) pollution has increased by 17%, doubling the number of days it exceeds safety targets, a rise partly caused by the chemical interactions resulting from lowered NO₂ levels and exacerbated by rising temperatures linked to climate change. The study highlights the complexity of air pollution sources, noting that while NO₂ mainly originates from local traffic, PM2.5 can travel long distances from continental Europe, and ozone pollution arises from both local and distant sources. Researchers emphasize the need for coordinated local and international efforts to address all pollutants holistically rather than in isolation. Although progress has been made, experts stress that further action is essential to reduce harmful pollution levels and protect public health across the UK.