Almost a third of Manchester residents would consider moving for better air quality
A new survey has found young people are more willing to uproot and move in search of a less polluted place to live
Last updated 29th Apr 2023
New data has revealed a third of people in Manchester would consider moving elsewhere to get away from pollution or poor air quality.
Environmental data firm Enjoy The Air including 4,000 UK adults in their survey, including people across the North West.
It found 29% of people across our region would think about upping sticks and seeking out a new home, if pollution in their local area remained a problem.
That's figure rises to 48% among people aged 18 to 24.
The poll also found that young people are more aware of the health impacts of dirty air, with 46% of 18-24 year olds experiencing air pollution related symptoms on their breathing.
Despite being the most vulnerable, just 28% of those over 65 years old reported feeling the effects.
Polluting vehicles were identified as a leading cause, with 38% of respondents feeling a direct ill-effect on their breathing.
However, just 13% of the population are aware of how to access information on local pollution levels.
Kate Barnard, Founder and CEO of Enjoy the Air, said: “It is staggering that nearly half of the young population are willing to vote with their feet in pursuit of cleaner air and improved wellbeing."
"In the UK, air pollution is a silent killer responsible for thousands of unnecessary deaths each year.
"The effects of rising levels of particulate matter on those living in major cities is clear to see in this research.
“With just 13% of the public aware of how to access information on local pollution levels, more must now be done to bring air pollution levels down within WHO recommended limits and to increase transparency in local communities.
"Improved collaboration between Government and experts in the field will support a speedier transition to clean air for all.”