Overall, the air quality in Ireland is good. Prevailing winds from the Atlantic Ocean refresh and cleanse the air we breathe. Emissions of pollutants from road traffic are one of the main threats to air quality in Ireland. Significant reduction of nitrogen oxides from road transport is required if Ireland is to meet its commitments under the National Emissions Ceiling (NEC) Directive by 2010.
You can reduce the emissions of pollutants to the atmosphere and improve air quality by using less energy and using your car less.
Our air quality is assessed by monitoring the levels of various pollutants. This monitoring checks whether air quality meets standards that are considered adequate for the protection of human health and the environment. These pollutants include particulate matter (PM10), sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, ground-level ozone and black smoke. Learn more about air quality.
Emissions of pollutants from vehicles, power stations, industry, domestic fuel burning and agriculture can have local, international or global effects. Air emissions in one country can give rise to problems in other countries notably acid rain and increased levels of ground level ozone. Emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases are enhancing the greenhouse effect, changing the global climate system. Learn more about air emissions.
Find out what you can do.
View real-time air quality data for air monitoring locations.
