Tackling air pollution

Professor Campbell Gemmell is to chair an independent review of Scotland’s air quality strategy.

The review of ‘Cleaner Air for Scotland – The Road to a Healthier Future’, a Programme for Government commitment, will explore the progress and impact of Scotland’s previous air quality strategy; identify and assess any new evidence and developments; make recommendations for future air quality policy; and outline actions needed to meet targets.

Although a Steering Group will be responsible for deciding the content of the review, it is anticipated it will cover transport, industrial, domestic and agricultural emissions as well as health, planning, and relevant business issues.

Announcing the review while meeting researchers at the British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said:

“There is a clear relationship between air pollution and human health impacts, and although we have made significant progress over recent years, more remains to be done.

“The Scottish Government is determined to drive down pollution levels, which is why I am delighted Professor Campbell Gemmell has agreed to chair a wide ranging independent review into our ambitious Clean Air for Scotland strategy.

“The review will bring together research being undertaken by the British Heart Foundation here in Edinburgh and others elsewhere to determine how we, as a nation, can take further positive steps to mitigate the impact of this hugely important subject.”

Professor Campbell Gemmell said:

“I am very pleased to have been invited to chair this review. Air pollution in Scotland has already improved significantly. It is a complex multi-dimensional challenge; connecting health, environment, climate change, planning, transport and business dimensions amongst others. As a result, it needs careful assessment in order to understand the issues, identify solutions and provide advice on the necessary next steps to continue to deliver long-term improvements in air quality and quality of life for everyone in Scotland. This review aims to provide government with the best advice available on the way ahead.

David McColgan, Senior Policy and Public Affairs Manager said:

“British Heart Foundation Scotland welcomes the announcement of this independent review of the Cleaner Air for Scotland Strategy demonstrates the Scottish Government’s clear commitment to improving Scotland’s air quality.

"The review represents an opportunity for the Scottish Government and partners across the country to signal their intentions to work in partnership to reduce harmful air pollution, which has been proven to contributes to poor health outcomes and the development of heart and circulatory disease."

Background

Cleaner Air for Scotland – The Road to a Healthier Future (CAFS) is Scotland’s first strategy specifically dedicated to tackling the issue in Scotland – previous strategies were conducted on a UK basis – was published in November 2015.