The Air Quality Strategy identifies clear measurable targets to improve air quality in the UK by 2005, based on understanding of the health effects of the pollutants concerned and costs of emission reduction methods. The standards are based on an assessment of the effects of each pollutant on public health. The Strategy sets out the contribution key sectors, such as industry, transport and local government, will need to make towards achieving objectives. Improvements in air quality will not be made without cost. Consequently, the objectives introduced under the Environment Act 1995 will be achieved through the best available techniques not entailing excessive cost.
Industry is a significant emitter of air pollutants .
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 some 2500 of the most polluting processes have been made subject to Integrated Pollution Control, whilst a further 13,000 processes have been made subject to Local Air Pollution Control . It is primarily through the continued operation of these controls that reductions in emissions will be secured. In addition industry will have a role to play in securing reductions from other sector responsible for pollution, such as transport , and will be expected to adopt high standards of environmental management. The Strategy will be subject to periodic reviews to assess the progress towards meeting the objectives and ensure the continuing relevance and cost effectiveness of the proposed measures.