University of Southampton Response to Welsh Government Consultation Response: Fine particulate matter air quality targets
Executive Summary
The Welsh Government released a consultation on draft regulations to implement stricter fine particulate matter air quality targets, which are:
- reducing annual mean concentrations of PM2.5 in ambient air to a level of 10 microgrammes per cubic metre by 31 December 2035
- reducing average population exposure by 25% by 31 December 2035.
On balance, the authors support the ambition of Wales’ AMCT (Annual Mean Concentration Target). It is technically achievable, comparatively ambitious within the UK, and health‑ and value‑positive, especially when coupled with the proposed PERT. The key is to lock in interim milestones and an early review, so that Wales can tighten the date if transboundary and domestic measures deliver faster‑than‑expected gains.
This response also agrees with the level of ambition for Wales’ PERT (Population Exposure Reduction Target), it is evidence-based, health-led, and feasible given transboundary constraints. However, the Government must operationalise ambition with interim milestones, strengthened monitoring, and a scheduled early review.
Authors
Dr Nat Easton, Research Fellow and Public Policy|Southampton UPEN Knowledge Exchange Fellow at the University of Southampton
Professor Christina Vanderwel, Professor and Head of the Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics Research Group at the University of Southampton, and UKRI Future Leaders Fellow
