When is an air quality assessment needed?
When is an air quality assessment needed? Clean air isn’t a luxury — it’s a basic need. Yet, in the UK planning system, air quality still too often becomes an afterthought. When Is an Air Quality Assessment Needed? Air quality plays a vital role in protecting health and creating sustainable communities. For developers, planners, and architects, knowing when an Air Quality Assessment for planning permission is required can mean the difference between a smooth planning process and unexpected delays. At Haze Environmental, one of the most common questions we’re asked as air quality consultants is: “Does my project really need an air quality assessment?” The answer depends on both the scale of your development and the local air quality context. Why Air Quality Matters in Planning According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly everyone on the planet is breathing air that exceeds safe pollutant levels. The health risks are serious — from asthma and respiratory illness to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even certain cancers. In 2020, the UK reached a landmark moment when air pollution was listed as a cause of death on a child’s death certificate — a tragic but vital recognition of its very real dangers. The Royal College of Physicians’ latest report also highlights that air pollution doesn’t affect everyone equally. Children growing up in deprived urban areas are more likely to breathe polluted air and to live with pre-existing health conditions that make exposure even more harmful. In the UK, air quality is a material consideration in the planning system, meaning decision-makers must take it into account when approving developments. Not every scheme needs an assessment, but if a project could worsen local air quality or expose people to harmful pollution, an air quality assessment becomes essential. Breathing clean air: Reduces inflammation in the lungs, helping to prevent or reduce the severity of asthma attacks. Improves overall lung function, particularly in children and older adults. Lowers the risk of chronic conditions such as COPD and cardiovascular disease. Supports recovery for those with existing respiratory illnesses. Innovative urban design plays a key role in tackling air pollution. Effective partnerships between developers, policymakers, and communities are essential to accelerate sustainable solutions. In London, initiatives such as Air Quality Positive demonstrate how air quality can — and should — be embedded throughout the entire project life cycle, rather than treated as an afterthought. On a recent residential scheme our air quality consultants worked on, early screening revealed elevated background NO₂ levels — allowing the design team to adapt layouts before planning submission. Key Triggers for an Air Quality Assessment You’ll typically need an assessment if your project meets one or more of these thresholds: Residential developments with more than 10 homes Non-residential developments with over 1,000 m² of floor space Sites larger than 0.5 hectares Schemes with more than 10 parking spaces Developments including a centralised energy facility (e.g. CHP plant, biomass boiler) Projects likely to cause significant changes in traffic flows, such as a new road layout or a large increase in vehicle movements. With the release of the most recent WHO air quality guidelines, Local Authorities are becoming stricter — moving beyond basic compliance with national standards and taking a more proactive stance on air quality. Local Environmental Context Even smaller schemes may trigger the need for an AQA if: The site lies within or close to an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) The background pollution levels are already high Sensitive uses are introduced (e.g. homes, schools, healthcare facilities) near busy roads or industrial sources In these cases, an assessment helps determine whether future occupants would be exposed to harmful pollution and identifies what mitigation measures may be needed. When working on schemes in London, consultants must also consider Air Quality Focus Areas, as well as Air Quality Neutral and Air Quality Positive guidance. These frameworks reflect the growing emphasis on designing developments that not only minimise emissions but actively contribute to cleaner air. Best Practice: Engaging Early The best way to avoid unnecessary costs and delays is to engage early with your Local Planning Authority (LPA) and an air quality consultant. A phased approach often works best: Screening Assessment – a quick check to see if an AQA is required. Detailed Assessment – if needed, modelling and monitoring provide a full picture of potential impacts. This ensures you only invest in detailed work when it’s genuinely necessary. With over 18 years of consultancy experience, I’ve found that air quality is often treated as an afterthought — although this is thankfully starting to change. The risk of leaving air quality to the last minute can be costly: late-stage design changes or retrofits can quickly escalate budgets. When air quality is integrated as part of a holistic design approach, schemes run more smoothly and deliver better outcomes for both people and the environment. Considering air quality early isn’t just good practice — it’s smart planning. Final Thoughts One of the biggest misconceptions developers have about air quality assessments for planning permission is underestimating their importance within the planning process. At Haze Environmental, we aim to change that perception — helping clients understand that considering air quality early adds value beyond compliance. With Local Planning Authorities increasingly moving beyond national standards, now is the time for developers to take air quality more seriously. An Air Quality Assessment isn’t always required, but when it is, it can be critical for securing planning approval and protecting public health. If you’re unsure whether your development falls into that category, seeking advice early can save both time and money. At Haze Environmental, we help developers, planners, and architects navigate this process with clear, robust assessments tailored to each project’s needs. Not sure if your development needs an Air Quality Assessment? Get in touch with us today at airquality@hazeenvironmental.com About Haze Environmental Haze Environmental is an independent air quality and odour consultancy on a mission to make a positive impact on the clients we work with — and on the environment we
What if we designed clean air first?
Clean Air – A Right, not a Privilege
Air Quality: The Overlooked Pillar of ESG and Sustainability
Air Quality: The Overlooked Pillar of ESG and Sustainability When we talk about Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies, carbon emissions, renewable energy, and climate resilience often take centre stage. Yet, air quality is one of the most direct and measurable indicators of environmental impact and human well-being – making it fundamental to any meaningful ESG approach. What is ESG? ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. According to the British Business Bank, it is a set of standards measuring a business’s impact on society, the environment, and how transparent and accountable it is. The Confederation of British Industry reports that two-thirds of investors consider ESG factors when deciding where to invest. This means ESG not only benefits the environment and communities but also has the potential to drive business growth. How Does Air Quality Fit into ESG? Air quality should be a core ESG consideration because of its direct impact on the environment, public health, and social well-being. Poor air quality contributes to climate change, ecosystem degradation, and biodiversity loss, affecting the sustainability of natural resources. It is also a critical public health issue, with air pollution linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and premature deaths. From a social perspective, air pollution disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, exacerbating existing health inequalities and limiting economic opportunities. Businesses that prioritise air quality management not only reduce their environmental footprint but also demonstrate a commitment to corporate responsibility, employee well-being, and regulatory compliance. Environmental: Air Quality as a Key Sustainability Metric Air quality directly influences climate change, ecosystem health, and biodiversity. Poor air quality contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, disrupts ecosystems, and degrades natural habitats. Air pollution is a major global health threat, causing 8.1 million premature deaths annually, with 99% of the world’s population breathing air that exceeds WHO guidelines. Every day, approximately 2,000 young children die due to air pollution—more than one every minute (Clean Air Fund). The majority of outdoor pollution sources are beyond individual control, requiring coordinated action by policymakers at local, national, and regional levels. Sectors such as energy, transport, waste management, urban planning, and agriculture must work collectively to reduce emissions from industrial processes, transportation, and energy production. For businesses, poor air quality signals environmental degradation, often linked to emissions from transport, industry, and construction. Companies committed to sustainability should integrate air quality management and air quality impact assessments into their net zero strategies, corporate sustainability reports, and environmental impact assessments. What does investing in air quality look like for your business? ✅ Monitoring and mitigating emissions beyond just CO₂—addressing NO₂, PM₂.₅, and VOCs. ✅ Designing workplaces, developments, and infrastructure to minimise pollution exposure. ✅ Investing in clean transport, green spaces, and sustainable construction that prioritise air quality. ✅ Engaging environmental consultants and air pollution consultants to support compliance and best practices. Social: Clean Air as a Human Right Clean air is not a luxury—it is a fundamental right. Efforts to improve air quality contribute to public health, community well-being, and social equity. Air pollution disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, particularly in low-income and marginalised areas. The World Health Organization reports that 9 out of 10 deaths attributed to outdoor air pollution occur in low- and middle-income countries. Poor air quality is one of the biggest public health challenges globally (Clean Air Fund), leading to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and premature deaths. Most of the world’s population lives in areas where air pollution exceeds safe levels (WHO). Prioritising air quality enhances quality of life and promotes social equity and justice. Companies and policymakers cannot claim to support social sustainability while ignoring the air their employees, customers, and communities breathe. What does investing in air quality look like for your business? ✅ Incorporating indoor air quality into workplace well-being initiatives. ✅ Supporting urban planning and transport systems that reduce exposure in vulnerable areas. ✅ Engaging with local communities to address air quality concerns and drive positive change. ✅ Implementing air quality and dust management strategies to mitigate workplace and environmental risks. Governance: Accountability and Transparency in Air Quality Management Strong governance is essential for implementing air quality policies and regulations. Governments play a crucial role in setting emission standards, enforcing regulations, and promoting clean technologies. Businesses are increasingly expected to comply with environmental regulations and adopt air pollution reduction measures. Regulatory frameworks are tightening, and companies are expected to disclose environmental risks—including air pollution. Investors and stakeholders evaluate companies based on their environmental performance, influencing corporate governance practices. What does taking proactive steps to improve air quality look like? ✅ Monitoring and mitigating emissions beyond just CO₂—addressing NO₂, PM₂.₅, and VOCs. ✅ Designing workplaces, developments, and infrastructure to minimise pollution exposure. ✅ Implementing internal policies for air pollution reduction and employee health protection. ✅ Consulting with air pollution consultants to ensure compliance with best practices and regulations. Embedding Air Quality in Sustainability Strategies For too long, air quality has been an afterthought in corporate sustainability. Yet, it is one of the most tangible, immediate ways to improve environmental and social outcomes. Businesses, governments, and investors must recognise air quality as a fundamental pillar of ESG and take meaningful action to drive change. By embedding air quality considerations into sustainability strategies and working with environmental consultants, we can protect public health, reduce environmental impact, and build a fairer, healthier future for all.
Sustainable Solutions: Driving Cleaner Air for Our Cities
Sustainable Solutions: Driving Cleaner Air for Our Cities According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 7 million deaths annually are linked to air pollution, making it the world’s largest environmental health threat. The effects are especially pronounced for children, who may experience stunted lung development and cognitive impacts. WHO data shows that almost everyone on Earth breathes air that exceeds their guidelines, containing harmful levels of pollutants, with low- and middle-income countries suffering the highest exposure. Cities are at the heart of every global region. However, as the population of a city increases, so does air pollution. Clean air is a basic requirement for a healthy environment in which we can live and work. This article explores the sustainable technologies that directly address air pollution. The Need for Sustainable Air Quality Solutions Poor air quality is a major public health risk. Prolonged exposure to polluted air is strongly linked to asthma, certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. In 2020, air pollution was cited on a UK death certificate for the first time, highlighting its devastating potential. Studies show that poor air quality disproportionately affects individuals from lower socio-economic groups, exacerbating health inequalities. Those living in high-pollution areas are more likely to suffer from respiratory illnesses and face shorter life expectancies. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable. A recent study in London found that children living near busy roads had a higher risk of developing asthma, and adults with long-term exposure to traffic pollution had a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Since air pollution is often caused by burning fossil fuels, it also directly contributes to carbon emissions and climate change. The UK, along with many other nations, has made binding commitments to reduce both carbon emissions and air pollution. Increased urbanisation has a detrimental impact on air quality. As population density increases, so does emissions output, and consequently, air quality declines. The makeup of a city – its large size, dense road networks, and tall buildings – can exacerbate air pollution by trapping pollutants. In many cities, road transport and domestic/commercial heating systems are the largest contributors to pollution. Cities like London have implemented frameworks such as Air Quality Neutral and Air Quality Positive to address these challenges. These approaches aim to maximise local air quality benefits around large-scale developments while minimising exposure to existing pollution sources. Planners, designers, architects, and air quality experts must demonstrate what measures have been taken during the design phase to achieve the best possible air quality outcomes. Sustainable solutions and technologies are necessary not only for regulatory compliance but for advancing global sustainability goals. Sustainable Solutions for Improving Air Quality Innovative urban design can be a key driver in tackling air pollution. Transitioning to renewable forms of energy, moving away from traditional fossil fuels, directly helps improve air quality. For example, solar power and wind energy can replace coal and gas-fired power plants, reducing emissions of harmful pollutants like NOx and PM2.5. Within urban settings, examples of integrating renewable energy are numerous. Green transportation technologies, such as electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen fuel cells, and e-bikes/scooters, are reducing emissions of pollutants such as NOx, PM2.5, and CO2 in densely populated areas. In cities like Oslo and Amsterdam, electric buses and fleets of electric taxis have become the norm, drastically reducing air pollution. Ensuring energy efficiency in buildings also plays a major role in reducing operational emissions and cutting energy costs. Innovations like Passive House standards, which require little energy for heating or cooling, and smart HVAC systems that adjust heating and cooling in real-time, reduce a building’s energy consumption. Energy-efficient lighting (e.g., LED bulbs) further contributes to reducing energy usage in cities. Urban greening, incorporating green roofs, living walls, and urban forests, also helps mitigate air pollution. Green roofs, for instance, absorb harmful pollutants, while trees and plants in urban forests help filter particulate matter and reduce the urban heat island effect. This not only improves air quality but also enhances biodiversity and promotes mental well-being. Real-time data and air quality monitoring can also be used to proactively manage pollution hotspots. Cities like London and Paris have implemented air quality sensors that provide live data, allowing officials to issue warnings about poor air quality and take immediate action to address the sources of pollution. Challenges in Adopting Sustainable Technologies While the adoption of sustainable technologies offers promising solutions, there are challenges. High upfront costs remain a significant barrier. Retrofitting existing buildings with energy-efficient technologies or switching to renewable energy sources can be expensive, though these technologies often pay for themselves over time through energy savings. For example, buildings with solar panels and insulation may have higher initial costs but see a significant reduction in energy bills, making them more cost-effective in the long term. There is also a need for education and training to ensure urban planners, developers, and other stakeholders are equipped with knowledge about the available sustainable technologies. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in addressing these knowledge gaps by fostering collaboration and sharing expertise. Adopting green technologies in older infrastructure poses another challenge. Retrofitting existing infrastructure, such as outdated heating systems, to meet modern standards of energy efficiency or to incorporate renewable energy can be complex and costly. Despite these barriers, the integration of sustainable technologies represents a critical pathway to achieving a cleaner and healthier urban environment. Despite these barriers, the integration of sustainable technologies represents a critical pathway to achieving a cleaner and healthier urban environment. The Bigger Picture: Cities Leading the Way Initiatives like London’s Air Quality Neutral and Air Quality Positive policies encourage the adoption of sustainable technologies. These policies aim to mitigate the air pollution contributions of new developments while aligning with broader city objectives to improve air quality. They encourage the inclusion of features like green roofs, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and renewable energy sources in new developments. Globally, cities like Copenhagen have made significant strides in reducing air pollution. The city has committed to becoming
Invisible Threats: How Air Pollution Affects Our Health
Invisible Threats: How Air Pollution Affects Our Health Have you ever wondered about the quality of the air you’re breathing? For those with asthma or other respiratory conditions, it might be a daily concern. But air quality affects everyone, and poor air quality is linked to approximately 7 million premature deaths worldwide each year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly all of us are breathing air that exceeds safe pollutant levels. While air quality has improved in some regions, many areas still face dangerously high pollution levels. At Haze Environmental Ltd, our focus is on addressing these issues, making an impact where it’s needed most. How Safe Is the Air We Breathe? As you sit here, your brain is signalling your diaphragm to contract and your ribs to expand. Air passes through your trachea, sustaining your life. Yet, this essential act of breathing can also expose us to harmful pollutants. The very air we depend on can become a source of harm. Why It Matters Poor air quality is a major public health risk. Prolonged exposure to polluted air is strongly linked to asthma, certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. In 2020, air pollution was cited on a UK death certificate for the first time, highlighting its devastating potential. Studies show that poor air quality disproportionately affects individuals from lower socio-economic groups, exacerbating health inequalities. Since air pollution is often caused by burning fossil fuels, it also has a direct link to carbon emissions and climate change. The UK and many other nations have made binding commitments to reduce both carbon emissions and air pollution. Air quality is currently a critical topic. According to WHO, nearly 7 million deaths annually are linked to air pollution, making it the world’s largest environmental health threat. The effects are especially pronounced for children, who may experience stunted lung development and cognitive impacts. One tragic case was that of Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, a young girl who lived near London’s South Circular Road. Ella’s death in 2013 following an asthma attack was the first in the UK where air pollution was officially recorded as a contributing factor. The inquest revealed that her family was unaware of the risks posed by local pollution levels. This landmark decision underscores the need for greater public awareness and action. Imagine if the same effort put into anti-smoking campaigns was applied to raising awareness of air pollution’s dangers. What Is Air Quality? Air quality refers to how clean or polluted the air we breathe is. When air quality is poor, pollutants can pose short- and long-term health risks. As a parent, I understand the concerns of caregivers and healthcare professionals who strive to protect children and vulnerable individuals from these risks. In the UK, the planning system plays a vital role in improving air quality and reducing exposure to pollution. Local planning policies and individual planning applications are key tools for managing air quality. The main pollutants of concern in the UK are nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulate matter (PM₁₀), both primarily produced by road traffic. These pollutants frequently exceed the UK’s Air Quality Strategy targets. The problem with air pollution is that it’s often invisible. You could walk down a busy road without realising the air you’re breathing may be harmful, especially if you have underlying health conditions. This is where consultants like me step in – predicting and evaluating the air quality impacts of developments such as new roads or housing projects, and assessing their effects on sensitive receptors like homes, schools, and care facilities. More Needs to Be Done The latest WHO air quality guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations to protect public health by setting limits for specific pollutants. These guidelines reflect the ongoing threat of air pollution. However, meeting these new standards will be challenging, particularly in cities like London, where pollution levels remain over four times higher than recommended. Are We Doing Enough? It is an exciting time to work in the field of air quality. Public awareness and perception of air pollution have grown significantly in recent years. While the UK has seen improvements through cleaner technology, behaviour changes, and initiatives like Clean Air Zones, some areas still exceed legal limits. To make meaningful progress, we need to: Move beyond mere compliance with air quality objectives. Increase air quality monitoring efforts. Standardise air quality assessments. Regularly re-evaluate air quality policies and practices. Final Thoughts Air quality is a fundamental public health issue that intersects with climate change, social justice, and urban development. Addressing it requires a collective effort from governments, businesses, and individuals. At Haze Environmental Ltd, we are committed to raising awareness, providing expert guidance, and contributing to a future where clean air is a right, not a privilege.
Understanding Damage Cost Calculations
Understanding Damage Cost Calculations: Mitigating Air Pollution Impacts in Development When developing a project, one key consideration is how it affects air quality. This is especially important as air pollution poses serious health risks. In the UK, the burden of air pollution, driven by particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), contributes to an estimated 29,000 to 43,000 deaths each year. With these alarming figures, developers must factor air quality impacts into their planning. A useful tool in assessing air pollution impacts is damage cost calculations. But what exactly are these, and how can they help guide development projects? What Are Damage Costs? Damage costs, also referred to as emissions mitigation assessments, are an economic way to quantify the health impacts of air pollution. These assessments help local authorities and developers understand how changes in pollutant emissions can be measured in monetary terms. They determine the cost of mitigating emissions from a proposed development, focusing on pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) that are often linked to vehicle traffic from new developments. In simpler terms, damage costs represent the financial value of air quality improvements, measured by the reduction in pollutants. The costs are calculated per tonne of pollutant reduced, factoring in the health impacts such as hospital admissions and premature deaths. Why Are Damage Cost Calculations Important? These calculations play a critical role in ensuring that air quality considerations are factored into policy and development plans. By assigning a financial value to the health impacts of air pollution, developers can better understand the environmental cost of their projects. The calculated damage costs should then be directed toward mitigation efforts, such as reducing emissions or implementing offsetting schemes. This is not a penalty or fee, but rather a proactive measure to ensure the health impacts of the development are addressed. How Are Damage Costs Calculated? Damage cost calculations are typically carried out by qualified air quality consultants. The process involves: Estimating the additional number of trips a new development will generate, which leads to increased emissions. Using the latest DEFRA emissions factors for each pollutant (such as NOx and PM). Multiplying the emissions by the damage cost value and factoring in a five-year period. The resulting figure determines the level of mitigation required to offset the pollution impact of the development. This could include measures like adding electric vehicle (EV) charging points or improving public transport connectivity. Examples of Mitigation Measures Where air quality impacts are identified, developers are expected to incorporate mitigation measures either directly into their project or through financial contributions to larger environmental efforts. Common measures include: EV charging infrastructure to promote the use of cleaner vehicles. Improved landscaping to enhance air circulation and reduce the “canyon effect” where pollutants get trapped in narrow spaces. Better urban design to reduce public exposure to pollutants. Contributions to air quality action plans that fund larger initiatives to improve air quality. If direct on-site mitigation is not feasible, developers may need to contribute financially through Section 106 agreements or similar schemes, ensuring that broader air quality strategies can still be supported. How Haze Environmental Can Help Navigating damage cost calculations and emissions mitigation assessments can be complex. That is why Haze Environmental has developed a simple spreadsheet tool to help developers easily calculate these costs and design effective mitigation strategies. We have worked with local authorities on various projects, providing solutions like EV charging, public transport connectivity, and green infrastructure to offset air pollution. If you are in the planning stages of a development and need help with air quality assessments, contact Haze Environmental today to learn more about our services and tools.
Exploring the Impact of Domestic Wood Burning on Air Quality
Exploring the Impact of Domestic Wood Burning on Air Quality Cosiness often evokes images of warm hearths and crackling fires, but beneath this idyllic picture lies a pressing concern: the impact of domestic wood burning on air quality. The allure of wood burners has surged in popularity, yet their charm belies a darker truth: they contribute significantly to local pollution concentrations. The LAEI (2019) shows that in cities like London, an alarming 17% of PM2.5s now stem from wood burning, a figure indicative of the growing threat they pose to public health and why controlling wood burning is an important issue.Recent research has shed light on the severity of the problem. Wood smoke, a complex mixture of particulate matter, gases, and hundreds of chemicals, harbours hazardous pollutants and carcinogens like benzene. This toxic concoction wreaks havoc on both human and environmental health, prompting governmental bodies at all levels to take action. Local authorities across the UK are implementing measures aimed at curbing emissions and safeguarding air quality to meet national targets and improve public health.But did you know that wood burning isn’t just detrimental to the environment – it’s also harmful to your health? Particulate matter, emitted during wood combustion, infiltrates the respiratory system, posing grave risks. Exposure to these minuscule particles increases the likelihood of heart and lung diseases, and dementia, as well as adversely affecting unborn babies. Prolonged exposure exacerbates respiratory ailments, with vulnerable populations such as children, asthmatics, and pregnant women bearing the brunt of its consequences.The grim reality is further underscored by studies. Research conducted by Ricardo (2023) for the London Borough of Camden and London Borough of Islington estimated that 284 Londoners annually succumb prematurely to air pollution from solid fuel heating. The associated health costs, totalling £173m annually for domestic wood burning alone in Greater London, paint a stark picture of the toll exacted by this practice. Similarly, a US study by Environment International (2023) revealed a 43% increase in lung cancer risk among women using indoor wood stoves or fireplaces compared to non-users. Even eco-design models, touted for their environmental credentials, emit staggering levels of particle pollution – 750 times more than modern HGV trucks, according to the European Environmental Bureau. This revelation has prompted policymakers, including London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan, to retract support for wood-burning stoves due to their contribution to harmful air pollution. Moreover, wood burning is an inefficient and costly form of heating. Not only does it release more CO2 emissions than alternative methods, but the rate at which trees are replenished falls short of offsetting the emissions. Contrary to popular belief, wood burners prove to be at least 15% more expensive than gas boilers or heat pumps, exacerbating financial burdens on households.The solution lies in reevaluating our reliance on wood burning and embracing sustainable alternatives. Heat pumps and district heat networks offer cleaner, more efficient heating solutions, paving the way for a greener future. It’s imperative to weigh the true costs of wood burning – economic, environmental, and health-related – and transition towards cleaner, healthier alternatives.At Haze Environmental, we’re committed to fostering better air quality and promoting public health. Join us in our mission to combat deadly air pollution and create a healthier world for all.
UN Sustainable Development Goals
UN Sustainable Development Goals UN Sustainable Development Goals at Haze Environmental At Haze Environmental, our consultancy work is deeply rooted in a steadfast commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), serving as our guiding framework to shape a better and more sustainable future for all. Formulated as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, these 17 global goals, unanimously adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, comprehensively tackle social, economic, and environmental challenges on a global scale. The Significance of Aligning with SDGs Aligning with the SDGs holds profound benefits for organizations, and at Haze Environmental, we recognize the significance of this alignment. It is crucial for global recognition and relevance, showcasing an organization’s commitment to social responsibility. This alignment not only mitigates risks related to reputation and regulatory compliance but also fosters innovation, giving companies a competitive edge. It enhances employee engagement, attracts investors, and opens doors to new markets, ensuring long-term business viability by addressing sustainability challenges and fostering valuable partnerships with governments, NGOs, and other businesses. Furthermore, aligning with the SDGs builds consumer trust and loyalty, meeting the growing demand for products and services from socially responsible companies. Ultimately, this strategic alignment positions organizations for regulatory compliance and sustainable growth in an ever-evolving global landscape. Unique Advantages for Small Companies For small companies like Haze Environmental, aligning with the SDGs offers a unique set of advantages. It elevates our reputation, positioning us as a socially responsible entity that attracts environmentally conscious customers and sets us apart in the market. Implementing sustainable practices not only leads to cost savings but also fosters innovation and operational efficiency, creating a positive work environment that boosts employee engagement and aids in talent attraction. Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond marketing; it resonates with like-minded customers, fostering loyalty and providing distinct marketing advantages. Engaging with the SDGs opens doors to learning and networking within the sustainability community, enriching our business with valuable insights and collaborations. Dedicated to Advancing Key SDGs As a company, we are dedicated to advancing three key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Focused on Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, we advocate for considering air quality early in the design process to promote healthier environments. Embracing Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, our efforts involve identifying opportunities for sustainable and resilient infrastructure and collaborating with clients to upgrade and retrofit industries for long-term sustainability. Additionally, we contribute to Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by partnering with transport planners to ensure the provision of safe, affordable, and sustainable transport systems. Working closely with landscape architects, our commitment extends to creating accessible, inclusive, green, and public spaces for communities. In essence, Haze Environmental plays a pivotal role in fostering health, sustainability, and inclusivity across various sectors. A Commitment Beyond Strategy In summary, even with limited resources, small companies and solo entrepreneurs can benefit significantly from aligning with the SDGs. At Haze Environmental, our alignment is not just a strategic choice; it’s a commitment to innovation, reputation enhancement, and creating a positive impact on our communities and the planet.
Clearing the Air: Embracing Uncomfortable Conversations
Clearing the Air: Embracing Uncomfortable Conversations When discussing air pollution, it’s essential to confront the uncomfortable truths. From smog hanging over our cities to smoke inside our homes, air pollution poses a significant threat to both our health and our climate. Shockingly, every year, approximately 7 million premature deaths occur due to air pollution – that’s around 800 people every hour or 13 people every minute. The pollutants of major public health concern include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide. Understanding Air Quality Air quality is the term we use to describe how polluted the air we breathe is. Poor air quality can be hazardous, especially to those with lung or heart conditions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is the contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical, or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. Both outdoor and indoor air pollution cause respiratory and other diseases, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. It’s crucial to recognize that air pollution has short-term and long-term effects on health, raising concerns among various groups, including individuals with heart and lung conditions, parents, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and those curious about air pollution within the scientific community. A Tragic Case and a Wake-Up Call In 2020, the Coroner’s court used WHO evidence from 2005 in the inquest into the tragic death of Ella Adoo Kissi-Debrah. Her acute respiratory failure was attributed to severe asthma and air pollution exposure, primarily from traffic emissions. The ruling underscored a failure to reduce nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter levels locally at the time, with Ella’s mother lacking sufficient information about the health risks of air pollution from doctors and other health professionals. The coroner, Philip Barlow, warned in his Prevention of Future Deaths report, that the adverse effects of air pollution on health were not being sufficiently communicated to patients and their carers by medical and nursing professionals, and called on medical staff to do more to inform families about the dangers of air pollution. The Role of Healthcare Professionals To address this issue, doctors must play a more active role in educating patients about the health risks of air pollution. Training healthcare professionals is essential for enabling positive doctor-patient conversations on reducing exposure to air pollution. Encouragingly, Great Ormond Street Hospital has initiated a pilot scheme that considers air pollution at patients’ home addresses, adding data on nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter to patient records, indicating where air pollution concentrations at a patient’s postcode are above World Health Organisation safe levels. A Call for Action and Education Clean air is a fundamental requirement for a healthy environment. Although air quality has improved in recent years, there’s room for further progress, as emphasized in Chris Whitty’s Annual Report on Air Pollution (2022). We must focus on areas where people live, work, and study, educating patients about the risks of air pollution. It’s evident that more should be done to integrate air pollution discussions into medical practice. While moving might not be an option, adopting measures like using Defra’s pollution forecast tool for daily planning and modifying routes to avoid congested roads during commutes can reduce exposure. However, this necessitates additional training for medical professionals to understand the effects of air pollution better. The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) acknowledges the need for a comprehensive understanding of the impacts of air pollution on health within the medical curriculum. There is also an acceptance that doctors, and all healthcare professionals, need to understand that they have a responsibility to talk to patients about air pollution and how to avoid it. The RCP is actively working on producing and promoting resources to facilitate conversations about air pollution between healthcare professionals and patients. Urban Planning’s Vital Role Finally, urban planning plays a crucial role in promoting active forms of transport, which can significantly reduce air pollution emissions. Reversing the decline in active travel since the 1950s would bring substantial health benefits. As we strive for a healthier environment, let us all commit to educating ourselves, spreading awareness, and advocating for cleaner air for the well-being of current and future generations.
