The free online tool now includes the most recent air quality data for 2023 and this update aligns with the release of a major new report by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), which cites the Queen’s research as part of its evidence base.

The dashboard, originally launched in 2021, allows users to explore air pollution levels across Northern Ireland by geographical area and compare them to World Health Organization (WHO) thresholds. It is designed to empower the public and inform policymakers by making complex environmental data accessible and actionable.

The research underpinning the dashboard is led by Professor Duncan McVicar at Queen’s Business School, with contributions from Dr Neil Rowland, Senior Research Fellow and UKRI Regional Clean Air Champion for Northern Ireland. This research is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) through ADR UK and uses data from the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study (NILS).

The dashboard’s update aligns with the RCP’s newly published report, “A Breath of Fresh Air: Responding to the Health Challenges of Modern Air Pollution”, which highlights the growing body of evidence linking air pollution to a wide range of health issues—from cardiovascular disease and cancer to mental health and dementia. The report estimates that air pollution contributes to around 30,000 deaths annually in the UK, with an economic cost of up to £50 billion when broader impacts are considered.

“Our updated dashboard provides the most current data available and supports the public and policymakers in understanding and addressing the health risks of air pollution,” said Dr Rowland. “We’re proud that our research is contributing to national conversations and strategies on clean air.”

The RCP report calls for urgent, coordinated action across all levels of government and society, including the adoption of WHO air quality guidelines and stronger regulation of indoor and outdoor pollutants.  The ADRC-NI research provides unique evidence on the impact of air pollution on health in Northern Ireland as the region awaits its first Clean Air Strategy.

Explore the dashboard: CLICK HERE