24/07/2026
Defra has published the UKβs latest accredited air quality statistics, covering monitoring data up to 2025, and there are two stand-out findings.
π First, the release includes the first assessment of progress against Englandβs PM2.5 targets β both the legally binding 2040 targets and the 2030 interim targets. Both are well ahead of schedule, making it increasingly likely that the targets will be hit.
π Second, the long-term picture for particulate matter remains strong, even with 2025 seeing a weather-driven rise from 2024βs historic low.
Read our full explanation of Defra's air quality statistics in the news section of the website π
Defra's 2025 air quality statistics show 97% of English monitoring stations meet the 2040 PM2.5 target, with population exposure down 26% since 2018.