Air
SEPA works to understand and improve air quality in
Scotland. Good air quality is essential for a good quality of
life, helping to maintain human health, the climate, habitats and
achieve sustainable development.
Transport, energy generation, industry, waste and agriculture
can all affect air quality. Emissions to air can give rise to
health problems, depletion of the ozone layer and changes to
habitats.
Overall, air quality in Scotland has improved in recent decades.
However, concentrations of ground-level ozone – a potentially
harmful secondary pollutant generated in sunlight – have
increased.
SEPA regulates and monitors certain industrial activities in
Scotland that can generate local airborne pollution. Our work
involves working with and directing local authorities and other
partners to manage and improve air quality. We also provide policy
and operational advice to government, industry and the public on
pollution control and other environmental issues.
In addition, we work towards Scottish and UK objectives and
targets set to address global climate change and the cross-border
transfer of pollutants.
Find out more about how we protect and improve air quality in
Scotland in this section.