All Londoners experience unsafe levels of particle pollution
All inhabitants of London are breathing air exceeding global guidelines for toxic PM2.5 particles, according to data from the London Atmospheric Emissions Inventory. Every area in the city exceeds World Health Organisation limits for the particle, the report states, with almost 95% of the capital’s population living in areas that do so by at least 50%. Exposure to the particulates increases the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Half of PM2.5 in London's air comes from outside the city, according to the report. Within the capital, the main sources are construction, tyre and brake wear, and wood burning.

Created 6 years ago , updated 6 years ago

This report contains an introduction to PM 2.5­ , summarises our current understanding of PM 2.5 concentrations and exposure, discusses the findings of research undertaken by the GLA and TfL into the extent of PM 2.5 pollution in London, and assesses the potential for meeting World Health Organisation guidelines by 2030. Our analysis found that at present all Londoners are exposed to concentrations higher than WHO air quality guidelines, but, if PM 2.5­ reduction measures within the Mayor’s Transport Strategy and London Environment Strategy are accompanied by co-operation on a national and international level, the guideline limit is achievable by 2030.