New evidence showing that air pollution emissions have gone down again in Wales, has been welcomed by the Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development, John Griffiths.

Key findings in the report show how air quality is now better than at any time since the industrial revolution. Overall emissions of the seven priority pollutants have reduced substantially since the introduction of the air pollution inventory in 1990.

The latest emissions figures are published on the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory website, on behalf of the Welsh Government, DEFRA, the Scottish Government and the Northern Ireland Department of Environment.

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The Air Quality Pollutant Inventories for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – 1990 to 2010 records the following Air Quality pollutant reductions in Wales:

• Carbon monoxide – 72% reduction.

• Non-methane volatile organic compounds – 69% reduction.

• Nitrogen oxides reported as nitrogen dioxide – 54% reduction.

• Sulphur dioxide – 82% reduction.

• Ammonia – 16% reduction.

• Sub-10 micron particulate matter (PM10) – 54% reduction.

• Lead – 90% reduction.

Commenting on the results the Minister said: "I am pleased that substantial progress has been made since 1990 with emissions of the majority of pollutants decreasing by more than 50%.

"The Welsh Government is taking action to deliver the things that make a difference to communities now and in the future. We are acting in the long term interest of the people of Wales and not losing sight of factors vital to people’s quality of life.

"Air quality continues to have the potential to affect health and the environment in parts of Wales, and the Welsh Government will continue to seek improvements in air quality."

(CD)