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Air Pollution

Asked by Tim FarronLiberal DemocratDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 12 February 2026UIN 110734

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues to determine the extent that her Department's policies on ambient air quality are interacting with policies on climate change mitigation, nature recovery and land use planning.

Answered by Emma Hardy

Defra’s ambient air quality policy is delivered within the wider framework of the Environmental Improvement Plan, which sets out commitments to improve air quality, restore nature and support climate objectives. The plan highlights that actions to tackle air pollution such as reducing emissions, support nature recovery and contribute to resilience against climate change.

Air quality is also a material consideration in planning decisions and Government policy is set out in the National Planning Policy Framework.

I will continue to work collaboratively with colleagues across government to ensure we take a joined-up, holistic approach.

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