Clean air is a basic essential of life and poor air quality has a direct effect on our health, wellbeing and ability to work. The link between pollution and health such as respiratory problems, heart disease, asthma and strokes, has become increasingly clear over recent decades, particularly with children and older members of our community.

Reducing traffic congestion, and its associated poor air quality, in residential areas is a priority. Hafod is designated an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) because the levels of NO2, caused primarily by traffic, fail to meet the required standards. As a result, extensive monitoring of air pollutants takes place in this part of the Lower Swansea Valley. Further data collection and research is needed so that the causes, distribution and effects of all forms of air pollution can be better understood. For example, levels of small particulates (such as PM10s) in the air in several areas across Swansea are close to failing national target levels. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is the second most significant cause of lung cancer in the UK but its impact varies greatly depending on local geology. More research is needed to identify where this may be a particular problem in Swansea.

Monitoring pollution and using modelling systems can help support the provision of better information to the public as well as more strategic actions to control it. One proposal is for a personal pollution-alerting system to be introduced that can inform people with respiratory problems of poor air quality. A more responsive traffic management system for the Swansea Valley corridor, which takes into account air quality, is also being developed.