Understanding the Spatial Relationship between Air Pollution and Social Deprivation in the Uk

In the UK, only a limited amount of research has been undertaken into the burden of air pollution on different social groups, most of which has occurred during the last five years. This paper focuses on a study undertaken by Netcen on behalf of the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), to assess the spatial relationship between air pollution and social deprivation in selected urban areas of the UK. This study used simple correlation analysis, comparing average ward (NUTS 5) NO2 and PM10 concentrations with levels of deprivation. Positive correlations between social deprivation and air pollutant concentrations were observed in selected urban areas except Cardiff, with higher concentrations being associated with higher levels of deprivation. This paper briefly outlines other research in the UK that has followed this study, and highlights current research being undertaken by Netcen on behalf of DEFRA.