Most polluted cities in the UK with the worst air quality right now
Stay ahead of pollution trends with live rankings of the most polluted cities in the UK. Our detailed AQI breakdowns and pollutant metrics, including PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, SO2, and CO, ensure you’re always informed about current air quality conditions.
Current air quality rankings: Most polluted cities in the UK
Last updated - (Local time)
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| Rank | City | AQI | PM2.5 | PM10 | O3 | SO2 | NO2 | CO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Understanding the air quality measurements
Air Quality Index (AQI) categories and color schemes
The AQI is divided into categories based on US EPA standards: Good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy, very unhealthy, and hazardous.
Here is an overview of the color schemes used and the corresponding risk levels.
| Color Scheme | Risk Level | Index Values |
|---|---|---|
Green | Good | 0 - 50 |
Yellow | Moderate | 51 - 100 |
Orange | Unhealthy for sensitive groups | 101 - 150 |
Red | Unhealthy | 151 - 200 |
Purple | Very unhealthy | 201 - 300 |
Maroon | Hazardous | 301 - 500 |
Air quality pollutants categories
The air quality pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, SO2, and CO, are categorized as good, fine, moderate, poor, and very poor.
Here is an overview of the color schemes used and the corresponding risk levels.
| Color Scheme | Risk Level | PM₂.₅ (µg/m³) | PM10 (µg/m³) | O3 (ppb) | NO2 (ppb) | SO2 (ppb) | CO (ppm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Green | Good | 0 - 12 | 0 - 54 | 0 - 54 | 0 - 53 | 0 - 35 | 0 - 4.4 |
Yellow | Fine | 12.1 - 35.4 | 55 - 154 | 55 - 70 | 54 - 100 | 36 - 75 | 4.5 - 9.4 |
Orange | Moderate | 35.5 - 55.4 | 155 - 254 | 71 - 85 | 101 - 360 | 76 - 185 | 9.5 - 12.4 |
Red | Poor | 55.5 - 250.4 | 255 - 424 | 86 - 200 | 361 - 1249 | 186 - 604 | 12.5 - 30.4 |
Purple | Very poor | 250.5 - 500.4 | 425 - 604 | 201+ | 1250 - 2049 | 605 - 1004 | 30.5 - 50.4 |
Maroon | Hazardous | 500.5+ | 605+ | - | 2050+ | 1005+ | 50.5+ |
Your guide to air quality across the US and UK
Whether you're battling major air pollutants or seeking relief in the worst air quality cities, we’ve got you covered. Explore our detailed guides to stay informed and manage your health better.
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Least polluted in UK
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Why these cities are choking: Pollution source breakdown
The UK, despite its advancements, faces significant air pollution challenges in its major cities.
Here's a breakdown of the primary sources:
This is arguably the biggest contributor. Diesel vehicles, while once promoted as cleaner, emit high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a harmful pollutant. Even newer vehicles contribute, and heavy traffic congestion exacerbates the problem.
Source: Environmental Defense Fund
In colder months, reliance on older, less efficient boilers and wood-burning stoves releases particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants into the air. This is particularly concerning in densely populated areas.
Source: Earth.Org
While industrial emissions have decreased significantly, some sectors still contribute. Factories and power plants, depending on their age and technology, can release pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides.
Source: Birmingham City Council
Emissions from farming activities, such as livestock farming and fertilizer use, contribute to air pollution, particularly ammonia.
Source: UCL – University College London
Ports and shipping lanes contribute to air pollution, especially in coastal cities. Large ships emit significant amounts of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.
Source: Air Pollution Information System
Key factors exacerbating pollution
Densely populated areas with limited green spaces and heavy traffic can exacerbate pollution levels.
Increased urbanization and population density can lead to higher levels of emissions from various sources.
Inversions, where a layer of warm air traps colder air closer to the ground, can significantly worsen air pollution by preventing pollutants from dispersing.
Consequences of pollution
Air pollution has severe health consequences, including respiratory problems, heart disease, and even premature death. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
Source: WHO
Pollution can harm ecosystems, damage buildings, and reduce visibility.
Source: European Environment Agency
Addressing the issue
Promoting electric vehicles, improving public transport, and encouraging cycling and walking can reduce emissions from road transport.
Encouraging the use of cleaner heating alternatives, such as heat pumps, and improving the energy efficiency of homes can reduce reliance on wood burning.
Stricter emissions controls for industries and promoting cleaner technologies can help reduce pollution from industrial sources.
Creating greener cities with more open spaces and implementing measures to reduce traffic congestion can improve air quality.
Increasing green spaces within cities can help absorb pollutants and improve air quality.
Addressing international shipping emissions and promoting cleaner technologies globally are crucial for long-term solutions.
Protection measures that work
Indoor protection
Use HEPA air purifiers
Maintain HVAC systems regularly
Keep windows closed during high-pollution events
Monitor indoor air quality
Use cooking ventilation properly
Outdoor protection
Check air quality before outdoor activities
Wear N95 masks during poor air quality days
Plan outdoor activities for lower pollution times
Stay indoors during air quality alerts
Keep car windows closed in high-traffic areas
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim benefits for pollution-related asthma?
Yes. The 2023 Clean Air Act entitles sufferers to £260/year tax relief with NHS documentation.
Is London’s ULEZ expansion improving air quality?
ULEZ reduced central London NO2 by 46% since 2019. However, outer boroughs still exceed EU limits by 12%.
Are UK pollution standards weaker post-Brexit?
No. The 2021 Environment Act mandates stricter PM2.5 targets (10 µg/m³ annual mean by 2040 vs. EU’s 25 µg/m³).
Can I get compensation for dieselgate-related pollution exposure?
Yes. The 2022 Consumer Emissions Claims Act allows UK residents near major roads to claim up to £5,000.
Do UK schools close during pollution peaks like in Asia?
Rarely. DEFRA mandates indoor recess when AQI > 150, but full closures require local council approval.
Can employers mandate outdoor work during 'Very poor' AQI days?
No. HSE Regulation 6 requires alternative indoor duties when PM2.5 exceeds 55.4 µg/m³ (UK DEFRA Level 4).
Do polluted cities have higher EV charging costs?
Paradoxically yes. London’s ULEZ surcharges add £12.50/day for non-compliant vehicles, increasing EV demand and dynamic pricing.
Are UK pollution fines reinvested locally?
By law, 100% of Clean Air Zone penalties fund hyperlocal air quality projects within 5 miles of collection points.
How does air pollution affect UK tourist attractions?
Tower of London experiences 23% shorter average visitor stays when NO2 exceeds 80ppb (VisitBritain air quality study).
Can polluted cities revoke alcohol licenses for outdoor venues?
Yes. Manchester revoked 3 pub garden licenses in 2023 under Section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
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