MPs examine state of air quality in England as new inquiry begins
On Wednesday, the Environmental Audit Committee will examine the current state of air pollution in England as it begins a new inquiry.
MPs are examining the impact air pollution has on human health and the environment, and considering whether the UK’s targets are sufficient. The new inquiry was selected from a series of pitches given to MPs by experts and advocates through its ‘The Environment in Focus’ exercise.
Air pollution is associated with between 29,000 to 43,000 deaths a year, as well as other health problems such as respiratory and cardiovascular disease, strokes and cancer. MPs will explore whether Government’s current air quality targets are adequate to protect health and the environment, and how these compare with standards by other bodies, such as the World Health Organisation.
Meeting details
In the first panel, MPs will ask scientific experts to set out what impact air pollution has on human health and the link between air pollution and climate change. Witnesses are also likely to discuss how pollution is monitored, whether this is consistent across England, and how England compares to other countries in its efforts to improve air quality.
In the second panel, MPs will explore how air pollution exacerbates health inequalities, with the burden often falling on vulnerable and lower-income groups. They will also consider the role of local authorities in helping to tackle air pollution, and what extra policy measures might be needed to reach air quality targets.