Question

To ask the President of COP26, what assessment he has made of the urgency of taking steps to tackle air pollution on public health; what steps he will take at COP26 to ensure that any agreement includes a roadmap to improve air quality; and if he will make reference to the inalienable right to breathe clean air in any agreement.

Carbon emission reduction policies do, in fact, have the potential to improve air quality; rapidly moving away from coal towards renewable energy will provide cleaner air and better health outcomes for all citizens. As set out in the Net Zero Strategy, the UK will pursue decarbonisation options that leave the environment in a better state for the next generation by improving air quality, minimising adverse impacts on human health. The UK is continuing to take urgent action to curb the impact air pollution has on our citizens and communities, including through our landmark Environment Bill and Clean Air Strategy.