Glasgow Air Quality 2025Real-Time PM2.5 Monitor & Pollution Data Scotland
Check Glasgow air quality in real-time with live PM2.5, NO2, and traffic pollution monitoring for Scotland. Expert guide to improving indoor air quality in your Glasgow home.
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🏴 Glasgow Air Pollution Overview
Glasgow experiences moderate air pollution, primarily from traffic on the M8 motorway, Clydeside Expressway, and city centre roads. As Scotland's largest city, Glasgow faces daily pollution challenges affecting over 635,000 residents across Greater Glasgow.
Key Glasgow Pollution Sources
- • M8 Motorway: Major source, cuts through city centre with 120,000+ vehicles daily
- • Hope Street: Consistently ranks among UK's most polluted streets (NO2)
- • Clydeside Expressway (A814): Riverside corridor with heavy traffic
- • M74 Extension: Connects south to city centre, high PM2.5 emissions
- • Domestic Heating: Coal/wood burning in older tenements (winter spikes)
Glasgow vs UK Air Quality Standards
| Pollutant | WHO Guideline | Glasgow Average | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| PM2.5 (annual) | 5 μg/m³ | 8-12 μg/m³ | ⚠️ Exceeds WHO |
| NO₂ (annual) | 10 μg/m³ | 28-42 μg/m³ | ❌ High exceedance |
| PM10 (annual) | 15 μg/m³ | 14-18 μg/m³ | ✅ Near target |
🚗 Glasgow Low Emission Zone (LEZ)
Launched June 2023, Glasgow's LEZ covers the city centre bounded by the M8. It restricts older, high-polluting vehicles from entering the zone. Early data shows 10-15% NO2 reduction at Hope Street, but PM2.5 improvements remain limited. Indoor air purification still recommended for health protection.
Worst Areas: Hope Street, Argyle Street, M8 corridor, Clydeside Expressway, High Street.
Best Areas: West End parks, Pollokshields, Jordanhill, suburbs away from major roads.
⚠️ Health Impacts
Glasgow's air pollution causes an estimated 500 premature deaths annually in Greater Glasgow, primarily from heart and lung diseases linked to NO2 and PM2.5 exposure.
- • Children: Higher asthma rates near M8 and Hope Street
- • Vulnerable Groups: Elderly, respiratory patients, heart disease
- • Socioeconomic Impact: Deprived areas face higher pollution exposure
- • Life Expectancy: Reduced by 6-12 months in polluted zones
✅ Indoor Solutions
Protect your Glasgow home from traffic pollution with HEPA air purifiers:
Monitor above shows live data. Ventilate only when AQI <50.
Target 5-6 ACH. DIY £50-100, ready-made £200-500.
Close windows 7-9am, 5-7pm. Protect from M8 fumes.
❓ Glasgow Air Quality FAQs
What is the air quality in Glasgow today?
Use our free real-time air quality monitor above to check current Glasgow air quality. You will see live PM2.5, NO2, Universal AQI, and UK DAQI data for Glasgow and Scotland, updated hourly from SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) monitoring stations.
Is Glasgow air pollution bad?
Glasgow experiences moderate air pollution, particularly along the M8 motorway, Clydeside Expressway, and city centre. Average PM2.5 levels are 8-12 micrograms per cubic metre, exceeding WHO guidelines of 5. NO2 hotspots include Hope Street, Argyle Street, and the M8. Glasgow's Low Emission Zone (LEZ) aims to improve air quality.
When is Glasgow air quality worst?
Glasgow air quality is worst during weekday rush hours (7-9am, 5-7pm) due to traffic congestion on the M8, M74, and city centre. Winter months see increased pollution from heating emissions and lower wind dispersion. Worst pollution zones include Hope Street, Clydeside Expressway, and areas near the M8.
How can I improve indoor air quality in Glasgow?
Use HEPA air purifiers to remove 99.97% of PM2.5, NO2, and traffic pollutants indoors. Aim for 5-6 ACH in bedrooms. DIY Corsi-Rosenthal Boxes cost £50-100 with parts from local Screwfix or B&Q. Check our monitor before opening windows - only ventilate when outdoor AQI is below 50. Glasgow's LEZ reduces some outdoor pollution but indoor filtration still essential.
🛡️ Protect Your Glasgow Home
Glasgow traffic pollution from the M8 and city centre affects indoor air quality. HEPA air purifiers reduce PM2.5 and NO2 by 60-95%, protecting your family from traffic fumes and respiratory problems.
DIY Solutions (£50-200)
- ✓ Corsi-Rosenthal Box (1,000+ m³/h)
- ✓ Parts from Glasgow Screwfix, B&Q
- ✓ 15-45 minute build time
- ✓ Scotland delivery available
Ready-Made Kits
- ✓ Pre-assembled HEPA purifiers
- ✓ Scotland delivery + 10% off (STAROFFER)
- ✓ 30-37dB quiet operation
- ✓ £20-40/year running costs