NEWS: County-wide survey launched to understand public perceptions of air quality
Residents are being invited to complete a survey about air pollution by Worcestershire Regulatory Services (WRS), delivered in partnership with Worcestershire County Council.
The questionnaire aims to capture insights into issues like awareness and use of local air quality tools, lifestyle changes to improve air quality, and communication preferences on the important topic.
People can visit www.worcsregservices.gov.uk/all-services/pollution/air-quality to take part.
An evaluation was previously carried out in 2024 after WRS received over 1,300 responses to the baseline survey on the topic which highlighted the public’s awareness on the issue at that time.
Respondents voiced concerns about public health, the environment, urban planning and quality of life. This informed strategies to reduce air pollution exposure and promote air quality information, including making improvements to the behavioural change workshops in schools and community groups.
It is hoped the new survey results will show the impact of the organisation’s work to date and will lead to further improvements to WRS’ Air Quality team’s engagement work with the community.
The organisation undertakes the monitoring, assessment and reporting of outdoor air quality in the county on behalf of the six district authorities. The shared service also provides technical advice and contributes to local policies.
Cllr Jeremy Owenson, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Malvern Hills District Council said: “This survey provides another great opportunity to hear from the public about their feelings on air pollution which will allow us to create healthier and happier communities in the Malvern Hills District.”
Based on results, future air quality messaging will be tailored to ensure key stakeholders can play their part in combatting air pollution. WRS is committed to working closely with Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health department to achieve this.
Matt Fung, Public Health Consultant, Worcestershire County Council, added: “While we live in a beautiful, predominantly rural area, air pollution can still affect our daily lives. This survey is a great opportunity for people to share their views and help us understand what small changes could make a difference, whether that’s reducing car emissions outside schools or thinking about how and when we use solid fuel or wood-burning fires. We know people make choices for many different reasons, and we want to work together to find practical, realistic ways to improve air quality for everyone.”
The survey closes on 31 July 2026 and anyone over 16 can complete it.
The launch of the survey comes ahead of Clean Air Day on 18 June 2026, organised by Global Action Plan, the UK's largest public air pollution campaign.
10 JUNE 2026.