Scottish cites
Particulate matter (PM10) levels at monitoring sites in selected Scottish cities
(PM10:particulate matter 10 micrometers or less in diameter)Click to expand
The graph shows that no monitoring sites breached the PM10 annual mean Air Quality Strategy (AQS) objective of 18μg/m3 in 2021.
Notes
Current evidence suggests that there is no safe level of particulate matter in terms of human health effects. PM10 is among the most harmful of all air pollutants. When inhaled, these particles evade the respiratory system's natural defences and lodge deep in the lungs.
Health problems begin as the body reacts to these foreign particles. PM10 can increase the number and severity of asthma attacks, cause or aggravate bronchitis and other lung diseases, and reduce the body's ability to fight infections.
The Air Quality in Scotland site provides up-to-date estimates of air quality from monitoring sites across Scotland.
The Scottish Government's air quality policy: Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 - Towards a Better Place for Everyone
Additional Resources
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Good Places Better Health
A new approach to environment and health in Scotland