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Air quality and management
Find out how we support government air quality objectives and how to view the results.
How we help keep the air clean in our city
We’re responsible for protecting the environment, and a big part of that is keeping an eye on the air we all breathe. Every year, we write a report for the government (Defra) that explains:
- what the air quality is like in our city—what’s improving, what’s not, and where there might be problems
- what we and our partners (like the county council) are doing to make the air cleaner and healthier
We use special equipment around the city to measure pollution levels, especially things like nitrogen dioxide and particulates in the air. This helps us check if we’re meeting national air quality standards and decide if any areas need extra attention.
But we don’t just monitor—we take action too. We work with others in transport, planning, health, and industry to:
- encourage walking, cycling, and public transport
- support cleaner vehicles
- make sure new developments consider air quality
- help people understand how they can help reduce pollution.
Our annual report also tracks progress on our Air Quality Action Plan and helps us plan what to do next. This way, we stay focused on what works and keep improving.
Air quality management areas (AQMAs)
For maps and details of the AQMAs in Norwich visit DEFRA's website.
Air quality monitoring reports and assessments
You can find reports, assessments and plans (since 1998) which includes the 2024 Air Quality Annual Status Report.
Norfolk Countywide Air Quality Group
Norwich City Council is committed to working jointly with the Norfolk Countywide Air Quality Group to tackle poor air quality within the Norfolk area. The group which meets regularly throughout the year is made up of representatives from local authorities, the NHS and the Environment Agency within Norfolk. See the group's terms of reference.
Open fires and wood burning stoves
As open fires and wood-burning stoves grow in popularity, it’s important to use them in a way that keeps your home cozy while protecting your health and the environment. DEFRA’s Guide to open fires and wood burning stoves (PDF) offers simple steps to help you burn better.
