Ammonia pollution hotspots found in areas of UK with most pig and poultry factory farms

"Ammonia emissions are dangerous to human health and the environment. In the UK, agriculture is responsible for 89% of national emissions of the nitrogen-based gas used to produce fertilisers and released from livestock manure."

"The fine particulate matter formed from ammonia exposure drives heart disease, stroke, asthma and chronic lung conditions, and it is our most vulnerable patients who pay the price."

Research has identified ammonia pollution hotspots in Britain, particularly in Lincolnshire, Herefordshire, and Norfolk, where intensive pig and poultry farms are concentrated. Agriculture accounts for 89% of the UK's ammonia emissions, primarily from livestock manure. Ammonia contributes to the formation of PM2.5, a dangerous air pollutant linked to numerous health issues, including heart disease and asthma. Efforts to expand intensive farming face opposition due to concerns over air quality and public health. Reducing agricultural emissions could significantly lower mortality rates associated with air pollution.

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