UK Air Quality Index (AQI)Real-Time Monitoring
Check the current AQI for any UK city. Live PM2.5, NO2, and ozone data with health recommendations based on the UK DAQI scale.
UK DAQI Scale Explained
Enjoy outdoor activities. No health effects expected.
Sensitive individuals may experience symptoms. Consider reducing strenuous outdoor activity.
Reduce outdoor exertion. Asthmatics should follow action plans. Keep windows closed.
Avoid outdoor activity. Use air purifiers indoors. Vulnerable groups stay inside.
AQI by UK City
Click any city for detailed real-time air quality data, pollution sources, and health recommendations.
London AQI
Typical PM2.5: 8-15 µg/m³
ModerateManchester AQI
Typical PM2.5: 7-12 µg/m³
Low-ModerateBirmingham AQI
Typical PM2.5: 8-14 µg/m³
ModerateGlasgow AQI
Typical PM2.5: 5-9 µg/m³
LowEdinburgh AQI
Typical PM2.5: 4-8 µg/m³
LowLiverpool AQI
Typical PM2.5: 6-11 µg/m³
Low-ModerateBristol AQI
Typical PM2.5: 6-10 µg/m³
Low-ModerateLeeds AQI
Typical PM2.5: 6-11 µg/m³
Low-ModerateSheffield AQI
Typical PM2.5: 6-10 µg/m³
Low-ModerateNewcastle AQI
Typical PM2.5: 5-9 µg/m³
LowCardiff AQI
Typical PM2.5: 5-9 µg/m³
LowBelfast AQI
Typical PM2.5: 4-8 µg/m³
LowNottingham AQI
Typical PM2.5: 6-11 µg/m³
Low-ModerateSouthampton AQI
Typical PM2.5: 6-10 µg/m³
Low-ModeratePortsmouth AQI
Typical PM2.5: 6-10 µg/m³
Low-ModerateBrighton AQI
Typical PM2.5: 5-9 µg/m³
LowUK Air Quality Statistics 2026
UK Pollutants Measured
PM2.5
Fine particles under 2.5 microns. Penetrates deep into lungs. Main health concern.
WHO limit: 5 µg/m³ | UK average: 9 µg/m³
PM10
Larger particles including dust and pollen. Affects respiratory system.
WHO limit: 15 µg/m³ | UK average: 16 µg/m³
NO2
Nitrogen dioxide from diesel vehicles. Major urban pollutant.
WHO limit: 10 µg/m³ | UK limit: 40 µg/m³
O3 (Ozone)
Ground-level ozone. Peaks in summer. Causes respiratory irritation.
UK limit: 100 µg/m³ (8-hour mean)
SO2
Sulfur dioxide from industrial processes. Less common in modern UK.
UK limit: 125 µg/m³ (24-hour)
CO
Carbon monoxide from incomplete combustion. Traffic-related.
UK limit: 10 mg/m³ (8-hour)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UK AQI scale?
The UK uses the Daily Air Quality Index (DAQI) rated 1-10. Levels 1-3 are Low (green), 4-6 are Moderate (amber), 7-9 are High (red), and 10 is Very High (purple). The index considers PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2, and SO2 pollutants.
What is a good AQI level in the UK?
A good AQI in the UK is DAQI 1-3 (Low). At these levels, no health effects are expected for the general population. DAQI 4-6 (Moderate) may affect sensitive individuals. Levels 7+ are considered poor air quality.
Is UK air quality getting better?
Yes. Since 2010, NO2 levels have dropped 35% and PM2.5 by 21% due to cleaner vehicles, Low Emission Zones, and reduced industrial emissions. However, 83% of UK cities still exceed WHO PM2.5 guidelines of 5 µg/m³.
How can I protect myself from poor air quality?
Check AQI before outdoor activities, especially if you have asthma or heart conditions. On high pollution days, avoid busy roads, exercise in parks away from traffic, keep windows closed, and use HEPA or MERV 13+ air purifiers indoors.
Protect Your Indoor Air Quality
Even when outdoor AQI is low, indoor air can be 2-5x more polluted. Our DIY MERV 13 purifiers provide 1000+ CADR at a fraction of commercial prices.