Air Quality

Air Quality and Health

Air Quality is a measure of how good the air we breathe is, in terms of the type and quantity of pollutants contained within it. Air is polluted if it contains substances that may have a harmful effect on human health and the environment. Poor air quality can affect people's health causing problems such as heart diseases and breathing problems.  Government standards and air quality objectives are related to observable health effects.

Local Air Quality

Wellingborough Council undertakes an annual review and assessment of local air quality as required under the Environment Protection Act 1995.

The Government has set a number of air quality objectives for the following pollutants: 1, 3 Butadiene, Benzene, Carbon Monoxide, Lead, Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and PM10.

Annual assessments utilise national guidance to consider polluting industries, road sources etc within the Borough and their potential impact on the above pollutant levels.

The national regime has enabled us to focus on one pollutant NO2 where there is a likelihood of a problem in the area.

Annual reports have however concluded that all of UK air quality objectives including those for NO2 are currently being met in the area covered by the Borough of Wellingborough. As a result no Air Quality Management Areas have been declared.

Last Updated: 22/03/2010