RDE461 User Research for (1) Local Air Quality Emissions Mapping Tool and (2)

Local authorities (LAs) play a key role in managing air quality in their area and it is important they have the right tools to support them in this. There are existing LAQM tools, guidance and policies available but Defra would like to determine if additional support is needed, particularly on fine particulate matter (PM2.5), the pollutant which is most harmful to human health. Under the Environment Act 2021 two new legally binding long-term targets were set to reduce concentrations of PM2.5. The Air Quality Strategy (AQS) adds new focus on PM2.5 and sets an expectation that all LAs will take action and effectively use their powers to reduce these emissions from sources which are within their control. This will support meeting local objectives and contribute to national targets.

Defra would like to determine if LAs would benefit from additional tools to support them in meeting the AQS expectations, particularly in respect to the new PM2.5 targets. We would like to focus on two areas. The first is in identifying air pollutant emissions in an LA's area and the sources of these emissions and the second is to support the consideration of air quality when creating and reviewing Local Plans