LPC26: How can we tackle the unequal impact of air pollution?

Air pollution is often discussed as an environmental issue, but its consequences are felt more widely. Poor air quality affects the health of each and every one of us, deepens health inequalities, places avoidable pressure on the NHS, and shapes the everyday lives of communities across the country.
As policymakers decide how devolution should work in practice, while considering the prevention agenda, reducing pressure on the NHS and addressing geographical inequalities, the question of clean air is increasingly urgent.
Recent Healthy Air Coalition analysis challenges the assumption that toxic air is only a problem for major cities. Areas often considered greener or more rural, including places such as Cannock Chase, West Suffolk and Great Yarmouth, have recorded pollution levels comparable to large urban centres. At the same time, the data highlights a clear inequality challenge, with some of the most deprived communities also exposed to the highest levels of fine particulate pollution (PM2.5).
This matters because the health impacts of air pollution are significant and wide-ranging. Fine particulate matter can harm every organ in the body, and has been linked to conditions including asthma, stroke, dementia, cancer, heart disease and diabetes. For people already living with health conditions, and for children, older people and communities facing wider deprivation, the consequences can be particularly acute.
This panel will bring together political, health, environmental and community voices to explore how clean air can be put on the national agenda, and what a modern approach to tackling air pollution should look like.

We would be delighted for you to join us for this timely event, which will take place inside the secure zone of Labour Party Conference 2026 in Liverpool. Due to the event's location, only conference passholders will be able to attend.
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