Monitoring local air pollution levels | 14–18 years

This resource shows how learners can access and evaluate real-time data about atmospheric pollutants in their local area to make the teaching of this topic at age range 14–16 (on GCSE and equivalent courses) more relevant for them and their future. Extension questions are provided to use the activity with learners age 16–18.

We must reduce air pollution if we are to meet the requirement of UN Sustainable development goal 11: make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. It is important to monitor levels of key pollutants to see how well initiatives such as congestion pricing zones and electric vehicles are affecting air quality.

The activity gives learners a chance to look at current and historical levels of nitrogen dioxide in the town or area where they live.