Air quality
Overview
Historically pollution in towns and cities in this country was because of coal fires and heavy industry.
Nowadays, the main threat tends to be from high levels of road traffic and congestion.
The impact of air pollution on our health can include:
| Pollutant | Health effect |
| Nitrogen Dioxide | High levels cause inflammation to the airways of the lungs. Long term exposure can reduce lung function. Can enhance the effect of allergens in sensitive individuals. |
| Particulate Matter | Short and long term are associated with respiratory and cardiovascular illness. |
| Sulphur dioxide | Causes constriction of the airways of the lungs. |
| Carbon monoxide | Reduces the uptake of oxygen in the blood, this can lead to reduction of oxygen to the bodies tissues. |
| Ozone | High concentration can irritate the eyes and nose. Very high levels can cause inflammation to the airways of the lungs. |
Pollution also has implications on the area's natural environment and economy.