Scottish cities

Particulate matter (PM10) levels at monitoring sites in selected Scottish cities
(PM10:particulate matter 10 micrometers or less in diameter)
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The graph shows that no monitoring sites breached the PM₁₀ annual mean Air Quality Strategy (AQS) objective of 18μg/m3 in 2022. 

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

A Low Emission Zone (LEZ) came into force in Glasgow City Centre on 1 June 2023. This means all vehicles entering the city centre zone need to meet specific pollution emission standards or face a penalty charge. There are further details on the Glasgow LEZ in this blog.

This page was updated in July 2023.