Air pollution is the presence of substances in the air in quantities which can impact on human health, welfare, animal or plant life, or can unreasonably interfere with the enjoyment of life or property. The presence of air pollution reduces the quality of the air. Pollutants include certain chemicals and particles.

In a city as large, as vibrant and as economically successful as London, improving air quality is a major challenge. But as something that is vital for the health of your employees, it’s worth acting on.  Businesses in London are increasingly suffering from lost work days due to health problems such as asthma which are caused by air pollution. Of course a major part of air pollution in London is caused by road vehicles. But businesses also have a major impact and need to take action in order to improve the health of your employees, your customers and London as a whole.

There is more to air pollution than emissions. For example, under the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) 1990, a statutory nuisance includes ''smoke, fumes or gases emitted from premises so as to be prejudicial to health or a nuisance'' – very relevant if your business happens to be a pub, restaurant or other food outlet.

As a business, you can do more than just comply with regulation. If your business wants advice on air quality issues please contact Business Link London.

For a simple overview of current legislation relevant to air pollution, please follow the link here for the NetRegs website.