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<p>We are aware of the Centre for Cities report and are considering its evidence and
findings. Improving air quality is a top priority for this Government and we are committed
to take action to drive down overall emissions of air pollutants across the UK and
reduce human exposure to local concentrations of pollutants.</p><p> </p><p>Levels
of air pollution in the UK vary significantly depending on the specific pollutant,
location, time of day and season. There are many factors that contribute to levels
of air pollution at a local level but proximity to the European continent also plays
a role particularly for the pollutant of greatest harm to human health, PM2.5. Around
a third of the UK PM2.5 can be from sources outside of the UK (up to 50% on specific
days). Many additional factors also contribute such as weather conditions and population
density but South East areas of England are more affected by transboundary pollution
in comparison to more north westerly regions of the UK.</p><p> </p><p>To improve air
quality across the UK, the Government have already put in place a £3.5 billion plan
to reduce harmful emissions from road transport and are supporting 61 English local
authorities in both the North and the South of England to reduce nitrogen dioxide.
We have also published the Clean Air Strategy (CAS) which sets out comprehensive action
to reduce the national emissions of pollutants, reduce background pollution, and minimise
human exposure to harmful concentrations of pollution. The CAS also seeks to drive
down emissions of PM2.5 across the UK and provide stronger powers to tackle it in
local areas where there is a problem. Furthermore, the forthcoming Environment Bill
will introduce measures to ensure both neighbouring local authorities and relevant
public authorities work collaboratively and cooperate to tackle the problem of regional
air pollution. To tackle transboundary pollution we are increasing our International
engagement activity. The Bill will also introduce a duty to set a target for concentration
levels of PM2.5 in ambient air as well as a duty to set an additional long-term target
on air quality, going beyond EU requirements and delivering significant health benefits
for our citizens</p>
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