Environment and air quality

Protection of the environment and the need to tackle poor air quality are two of the most significant issues facing the Borough, the UK and the planet as a whole.

Carbon emissions are considered the most severe threat to the environment. These emissions stem from three sources: transport, industrial and commercial uses and domestic uses. Bromley’s carbon emission rates have reduced significantly over the past decade, with per capita emissions falling below the London average based on the latest carbon emissions figures from 2018. Domestic uses are the largest single component of emissions in Bromley, with transport also being a significant cause of emissions. There is still a long way to go in order to further reduce emissions rates to maximise our contribution to the UK legal target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Air quality is worsened by carbon emissions, therefore measures to achieve zero carbon will also benefit air quality. However, air quality is also adversely affected by particulates from vehicle brake and tyre dust, therefore additional solutions are needed to mitigate these impacts. This could include measures to encourage use of sustainable modes of transport and limit car use.

An updated Air Quality Action Plan for the Borough is currently being prepared, but planning has a role in ensuring that new development does not worsen and ideally improves air quality.