Air quality scientists in Fareham see rise in monitoring due to pollution concerns

Experts from Envirochem in Fareham are regularly called to test air quality in cities and close to busy roads, as well as on building sites.

Last week, the High Court ordered a fresh inquest into the death of nine-year-old Ella Kissi-Debrah, who died in 2013 after having seizures for three years. She lived close to the South Circular Road in London.

An inquest in 2014 concluded her death was caused by acute respiratory failure and severe asthma. But a 2018 report said it was likely unlawful levels of pollution, which were detected at a monitoring station one mile from Ella's home, contributed to her fatal asthma attack.

Ella may become the first person in the UK for whom air pollution is listed as the cause of death.

Duncan Russell, from Envirochem, said: ‘We’ve seen an increase in air quality testing and that’s a reflection of the concern people are feeling about the air they breathe.’