Ireland should move towards achieving the health-based WHO air quality guidelines

• Air quality in Ireland is generally good, however, there are concerning localised issues that are impacting negatively on the air we breathe.
• Ireland met all of its EU legal requirements in 2021, but it did not meet the new health-based WHO guidelines in 2021.
• Ireland and Europe should move towards achieving the health-based WHO air quality guidelines.
• It is estimated that there are approximately 1,300 premature deaths annually in Ireland due to poor air quality from fine particulate matter (PM5).
• The choices we make in how we heat our homes and how we travel directly impact the quality of the air we breathe.

Reduce home heating pollution (PM)

• Change how you heat your home by moving away from smoky fuels and instead use cleaner choices, where possible.
• Avoid using solid fuels if you have an alternative cleaner heating system.
• Make your home more comfortable and energy efficient. Supports are available through The National Retrofitting Scheme.

Reduce car pollution (NO₂)

• Walk, cycle or take public transport, even for the last kilometre (if you can).
• Leave the car at home (if you can) for one day a week or more.
• Carpool where possible.
• Work from home (if you can) for part of your working week.
• Go electric on your next car, if you can afford it.

What does the EPA want?

• Ireland and Europe should move towards achieving the WHO Air Quality guidelines.
• Measures to address fuel poverty, should also improve air quality.
• Local Authorities must provide more resources to increase air enforcement activities.
• The planned National Clean Air Strategy for Ireland needs to be published and fully implemented.
• National investment in clean public transport is needed across the country.