Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) at 'danger levels' in Scotland

Scottish city pollution is 'at danger levels' in Scotland according to the World Wildlife Foundation, after conducting an analysis on Scottish cities of Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Perth.

The levels of air pollution, which have been said to be in breach of EU targets, are a serious risk to health, with high levels of diesel fumes in the area being linked to heart risks. The Scottish government commented to the BBC that it "was working to improve travel choices and promote a low carbon economy."

Dr Dan Barlow, head of policy at WWF Scotland, said: "It is totally unacceptable that Scotland has breached European air pollution targets for the second year in a row. ... Scotland has had plenty of time to take preventative action, so it is shocking that we have failed to put in place the measures needed to meet air quality targets and protect human health."

The government outlined various travel schemes that have been put in place to combat the rising NO2 levels, such as developing low carbon vehicle technology, promoting "active travel choices" and encouraging a shift towards public transport.