We have secured a parliamentary inquiry into the effects of air pollution in the UK.

Key facts

• Our proposal was the only one to go forward, out of 200 applications.

• Our scientists are testing tree bark to see how air pollution spreads.

Calling for change

Air pollution remains the leading environmental risk factor for ill health, both in the UK and around the world. Long-term exposure leads to around 30,000 early deaths every year. However, public awareness of the links between air pollution and diseases, including dementia and diabetes, is limited.

Our researchers have called on the government’s Environmental Audit Committee, a parliamentary select committee, to hold a full parliamentary inquiry into the effects of air pollution. The results could change the way air pollution is monitored and help protect vulnerable communities.

The perfect pitch

Using their air pollution expertise, Dr Nat Easton (NIHR Southampton BRC Bridging Fellow) and Professor Matthew Loxham wrote a proposal on the health, economic and environmental costs of poor air quality. It was chosen to be one of five invited to pitch to MPs at the Houses of Parliament^, from over 200 proposals.

Dr Easton presented the pitch with Jemima Hartshorn, founder of Mums for Lungs.

Combining Dr Easton’s scientific research with Jemima's insight into the human cost of air pollution was very compelling and it was the only proposal chosen for a full parliamentary inquiry.

Giving evidence

Dr Easton, Professor Loxham and Dr Thomas Daniels (respiratory consultant physician at the BRC) gave written evidence to the inquiry. The BRC’s Professor Stephen Holgate gave evidence in person.

Professor Holgate said current air pollution policy has focused too much on cost and not enough on treating it as a public health crisis. He pointed to growing evidence that metal particles from traffic and engines are linked to cognitive decline and dementia. He called for a proper public health campaign.  

Our research continues

While we wait for the Environmental Audit Committee’s recommendations, our air pollution research continues.

Dr Easton is leading a study assessing tree bark as a way to trace harmful air pollution in local communities.

Tree bark from across Southampton and Winchester is being collected and analysed to determine how the composition and sources of particulate matter vary across the region.

This will give a detailed picture of which sources contribute the most to local air pollution and how different communities are exposed.