New initiatives target elevated air pollution levels across the West Midlands, particularly in disadvantaged neighborhoods. The West Midlands Combined Authority’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee receives an update on the air quality program during its meeting on February 16.
Impact of Recent Air Quality Measures
The program assesses the effects of actions taken in recent years and outlines strategies for the coming period. Air pollution contributes to approximately 2,300 deaths annually in the region and worsens conditions like asthma, coronary heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
In 2025, authorities installed 90 sensors region-wide to monitor PM2.5 particles—tiny pollutants under 2.5 micrometers from sources such as wood burners, vehicle tires, construction sites, and factories. These sensors operate outside residences, schools, businesses, hospitals, and sports facilities. Residents access real-time data via cleanair.wmca.org.uk.
Fluctuating Pollution Levels and Health Targets
Recent sensor readings show PM2.5 concentrations varying significantly. Levels reached 17 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) on February 4 and 5, dropped to 2 µg/m³ on February 7 and 8, rose to 13 µg/m³ on February 9 and 10, and fell to 6 µg/m³ on February 11.
No safe PM2.5 threshold exists, though the Environment Act 2021 sets regional targets of 12 µg/m³ by 2028 and 10 µg/m³ by 2040—higher than the World Health Organization’s 5 µg/m³ guideline.
Most Polluted Areas and Deprivation Link
Defra’s ward-level estimates reveal that 72 of the West Midlands’ 192 wards exceed 10 µg/m³ annual average PM2.5, affecting 1.2 million people or 40% of the population. The highest concentrations appear in central Birmingham, Coventry, Sandwell, and Walsall.
Disadvantaged areas face the poorest air quality due to heavy traffic on major roads and nearby industrial activities.
Ongoing and Future Actions
An air quality alert system now warns registered users of moderate-to-high pollution episodes. Additional efforts engage schools, councillors, and local officers. The 2026–2030 Air Quality Implementation Plan is currently in procurement, evaluating current tactics and pinpointing support for local authorities to drive improvements.
