New data reveals that air pollution was responsible for 4.8% of deaths among individuals over 30 in Mendip during 2022, underscoring ongoing concerns about air quality in the area.

This figure, slightly down from previous years, remains a significant health issue.

The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities released these figures just before National Clean Air Day on 20 June, an event that encourages the public to engage with issues of air quality.

Residents are encouraged to contact their local councillors and MPs to express concerns about local air pollution.

Despite these alarming statistics, campaigners have criticised the government's slow progress in addressing air pollution levels.

Imogen Martineau of the Clean Air Fund expressed concerns about the direction of UK policies, stating, "The UK is going in the wrong direction in tackling air pollution." The current government target is to halve levels of fine particles to an annual mean concentration of 10 micrograms per cubic metre by 2040, which is less stringent than the World Health Organization's recommendation of no more than five micrograms per cubic metre.

Martineau urged policymakers to align with WHO guidelines, emphasising the multiple benefits of clean air, which include better health, climate action, and economic improvements.

Larissa Lockwood, director of clean air at Global Action Plan, said: "The solutions to our air pollution problem already exist. We need the Government to take urgent action to ensure everyone in the UK can breathe cleaner air."

Ms Lockwood said providing people with greener travel options and phasing out wood burning in urban areas would help improve air quality.

"No one should have their life cut short because they do not have access to clean air," she added.

Friends of the Earth said the Government "is not acknowledging" the dangers of air pollution.

Climate, transport and air pollution campaigner Jenny Bates said: "The Government must act now by bringing particulate matter targets in line with the WHO's interim guidelines by 2030, and enshrine the right to clean air."

A government spokesperson responded by highlighting the progress made since 2010, stating, "We have delivered significant reductions in emissions – with fine particulate matter falling by 24%, and nitrogen oxides down by 48%."