Air Quality Regulations Guide
Understand the regulations protecting air quality in the UK, Europe, and North America. From Clean Air Zones to EPA standards - everything you need to know.
UK Clean Air Zones
Complete guide to ULEZ, Birmingham CAZ, Bristol, Bradford, and all UK Clean Air Zones. Charges, boundaries, and exemptions.
Explore UK CAZ →EU Low Emission Zones
Europe's LEZ network explained. Germany's Umweltzone, France's ZFE, Italy's ZTL, and more across 250+ European cities.
Explore EU LEZ →North American Standards
US EPA AQI, NAAQS standards, California's stricter rules, and Canadian AQHI. State-by-state regulations explained.
Explore NA Standards →Understanding Air Quality Standards
| Standard | Region | PM2.5 Annual Limit | NO2 Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| WHO Guidelines (2021) | Global | 5 μg/m³ | 10 μg/m³ |
| UK Air Quality Objectives | UK | 10 μg/m³ (by 2040) | 40 μg/m³ |
| EU Air Quality Directive | Europe | 25 μg/m³ (proposed: 10) | 40 μg/m³ |
| US EPA NAAQS | USA | 9 μg/m³ (2024) | 53 ppb |
| Canada CAAQS | Canada | 8.8 μg/m³ | 17 ppb |
Note: WHO 2021 guidelines are health-based targets. Most national standards are less stringent but legally binding.
What Are Clean Air Zones?
Clean Air Zones (UK) and Low Emission Zones (EU) are designated areas where vehicle access is restricted based on emissions standards. High-polluting vehicles face charges or bans to reduce local air pollution.
- Class A: Buses, coaches, taxis (UK)
- Class B: + HGVs
- Class C: + LGVs (vans)
- Class D: + Private cars, motorcycles
Why Regulations Matter
Despite regulations, many urban areas still exceed safe pollution limits. Understanding local air quality helps you make informed decisions about:
- • Where to live and work
- • When to exercise outdoors
- • Whether to invest in air purification
- • School and nursery choices
- • Route planning for walks and cycling
Check Your Local Air Quality
Use our live air quality monitor to check current pollution levels in your area. Regulations set the limits - we help you understand real-time conditions.