Introduction to Air Quality

Air pollution impacts everyone and is a greater concern for the young, elderly and those with chronic health conditions. 

There are many different types of air pollutants. The main ones we measure in Gloucestershire are nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulate matter (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀). 

Nitrogen dioxide

The combustion of fossil fuel is the biggest source of NO_2. This includes diesel and petrol vehicles, gas boilers and power stations. We often see the highest levels of NO₂ are generally by busy roads. In Gloucestershire, we get our nitrogen dioxide data from diffusion tube monitoring which measure NO₂ over one month.  

Particulate matter

PM comes from both natural and man-made sources. Natural sources include sea spray, pollen and soil. However, more than half of PM found is from made sources including from building works, dust from roads, domestic burning (wood burning), diesel and petrol engines and brake and tyre wear (including electric vehicles). The PM data we receive in the county tends to be via real-time monitors, although as they are costly, we do not have many.

Did you know? Wood burning is thought to be the main source of PM_2.5 in the home and is recognised as the most polluting form of home heating. Modern/eco stoves lessen, but do not eliminate emissions also.

Health impacts

Research has shown long term exposure to outdoor air pollution contributes to respiratory illnesses including asthma, lung cancer, pneumonia, COPD, bronchitis and also, heart conditions. Additionally, particulate matter is a pollutant of increasing concern. We are seeing emerging evidence that PM plays a role in the onset of dementia, reproductive issues and strokes. 

Children who grow up in areas with high air pollution are also more likely to develop asthma and in Gloucestershire, children are more likely to live in areas where air pollution is high . In June 2025, the Royal College of General Practitioners revealed the number of asthma attacks being treated at GPs has increased over 45% in a year. 

Further information, including how to reduce indoor and outdoor pollution exposure can be found here.

Gloucestershire district, city & borough councils

The statutory responsibility of air quality monitoring lies with the district, city and borough councils. Gloucestershire County Council however has a responsibility to support local air quality improvements. 

For countywide air quality mapping, please click here. 

For individual district, city and borough council air quality information, please visit their webpages below.