Jump to contentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleRebecca Speare-ColeThursday 27 August 2026 02:26 BSTA free text message and email warning system has been introduced by the Government to alert people across the UK when air pollution reaches high levels in their local area (Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)The UK Government has launched a free text message and email alert system to warn citizens when local air pollution reaches high levels.The opt-in service allows users to monitor specific locations, such as their home or workplace, and tracks five harmful air pollutants.Environment Secretary Dame Angela Eagle stated the initiative will help vulnerable people, including those with asthma, take practical steps to protect their health.England's Chief Medical Officer Sir Chris Whitty highlighted that air pollution causes lifelong health issues, particularly affecting children, pregnant women and people with lung conditions.The warning system is part of wider government measures to tackle air pollution, and members of the public can sign up on Gov.UK.In fullMillions across UK to receive texts warning of air pollution in their areaMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in