Air Quality

Part of 1. Questions to the First Minister – in the Senedd at 2:12 pm on 27 November 2018.

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Photo of Julie James Julie James Labour 2:12, 27 November 2018

Yes, absolutely. As part of the clean air programme established this summer, as I just said, an air quality evidence, innovation and improvements project has been set up. That will look at the World Health Organization guidelines for air pollution and all of their potential impacts and for potential adoption in Wales. The guidelines are based solely on scientific conclusions about public health aspects of air pollution, and don't consider the technical feasibility or the economic, political and social aspects of the achievement of those levels. Therefore, we have officials currently assessing such practical aspects so that we can underpin future targets with evidence, to ensure they deliver the most effective change, supporting the delivery of our well-being goals. We already have access to a wide range of levers to take forward action to improve air quality, including planning, infrastructure, legislation, regulation and communication measures. The Minister has indicated that we would consider legislating as well, if we find that that suite of measures isn't sufficient for the practical implementation of the standards.