Air pollution is a major problem that has been recognised throughout the world for hundreds of years. In the Middle Ages, the burning of coal in cities released increasing amounts of smoke and sulphur dioxide to the atmosphere. In the late 18th century, the Industrial Revolution, beginning in the UK, led to escalation in pollutant emissions based around the use of coal by both homes and industry. Pollutant emissions continued to grow through the 19th and early 20th centuries, and the dramatic smog episodes known as 'pea-soupers' became commonplace in many of Britain’s inner cities, leading to poor air quality. After the infamous London Smog of 1952, pollution from industries and homes was dramatically reduced in an attempt to protect health.
The links to the left provide useful information on the air quality issues that Castle Morpeth Borough Council deals with.