Islington's air quality has reached its best levels since monitoring began in 2000, with nitrogen dioxide levels falling by 42% between 2017 and 2023. This significant improvement was highlighted at the Environment, Climate and Transport Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
The committee received an update on the borough's efforts to combat air pollution, which included substantial progress in improving air quality. Projects have been implemented to reduce air pollution at care homes, and training on smoke control enforcement has been delivered to 177 attendees.
Further initiatives to engage the community on air quality have taken place in Highbury and Mildmay, featuring a real-time air quality website, citizen science workshops, and art competitions. Additionally, a project with University College London (UCL) students examined air quality data and driver behaviour at bus stands, areas known for high pollution levels.
Councillor Troy Gallagher, Executive Member for Environment, Air Quality and Transport, emphasized the importance of community involvement and partnerships in achieving climate goals.
