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Air quality improvement

Environment Minister welcomes reduction in Scottish emissions.

Decreasing air pollution in Scotland has been welcomed by Environment Minister Aileen McLeod.

A new report published today shows Scottish emissions of most air pollutants continued to fall in 2013, with significant reductions in emissions of all air pollutants since 1990.

Dr McLeod said:

“Air pollution is harmful to human health and can contribute to climate change, and I very much welcome the significant progress that has been made reducing emissions of nitrogen oxides and other air pollutants in Scotland.

“However, more needs to be done. The Scottish Government is already working closely with local authorities and other partners to improve air quality and the lives and well-being of communities and individuals across the country.

“Local authorities with air quality issues in their areas have in place local action plans to improve the situation which can include measures such as promoting of walking and cycling, for example, or greater use of cleaner vehicles. And the forthcoming national Low Emission Strategy – which we consulted on earlier this year - will ensure greater consistency in approach across Scotland.

“We will also shortly be holding another consultation on updated action plans for ensuring compliance with EU nitrogen dioxide targets.”

Notes To Editors

See also http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/Scottish-emissions-of-air-pollutants-2013-results-1ce1.aspx

The full report, Air Quality Pollutant Inventories for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: 1990 – 2013, together with technical explanations, can be accessed at : http://naei.defra.gov.uk/reports/reports?report_id=829

Contact Information

SG Communications

SGCommunications@scot.gov.uk

Catherine Brown

catherine.brown@scot.gov.uk

Channel website: http://www.gov.scot/

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