FAQs
What do you mean by air pollution?
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a gas that is mainly produced during the combustion of fossil fuels, along with nitric oxide (NO). Short-term exposure to concentrations of NO2 can cause inflammation of the airways and may increase susceptibility to respiratory infections. NO2 can exacerbate the symptoms of those already suffering from lung or heart conditions
Particulate matter (PM) is everything in the air that is not a gas. It consists of a huge variety of chemical compounds and materials, some of which can be toxic. Due to the small size of many of the particles that form PM some of these toxins may enter the bloodstream and be transported around the body, lodging in the heart, brain and other organs. Therefore, exposure to PM can result in serious impacts to health, especially in vulnerable groups
How do we measure air pollution?
We undertake three different types of measurement in Harrow,
We have one monitoring station currently in Stanmore which monitors PM10 and NO2.
We have two nodes in Wealdstone and Station Road which monitor PM2.5 and N02.
We also carry out monthly monitoring of nitrogen dioxide using diffusion tubes at 4 sites. These tubes are fixed to lampposts and the fronts of buildings, and absorb nitrogen dioxide over a monthly period.
How can I see the current air quality in Harrow?
While we are not currently exceeding Air Quality standards – we are exceeding targets in relation to PM2.5 and N02 for WHO Guidelines via our Breathe London air quality nodes, (three sites in the Borough).
We are reviewing our monitoring location sites as the surrounding areas have, over the years changed in character. We need to reflect this and provide a more accurate presentation of air quality in Harrow.
Data in relation to air quality in London can be found at
What does the Council legally have to do?
We are legally required to measure some air pollutants across Harrow and establish if they exceed nationally set air quality objectives that are designed to protect public health.
If they go above this, or are likely to go above this, we must declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and then develop an Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP).
Are pollution levels reducing?
The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way that we work and travel with fewer vehicle journeys. In addition, improvements in vehicle technology has nationally reduced traffic emissions.
Currently in Harrow.....