Air Pollution: The Biggest Environmental Threat to UK Citizens – What We Can Do About It

At Nilaqua, we believe that clean air and clean bodies go hand-in-hand. While our products promote hygiene without water, we’re equally committed to reducing our environmental footprint – because when it comes to pollution, every small change matters.

Air Pollution: A National Emergency

Air pollution is the largest environmental threat to public health in the UK, contributing to:

  • 9 out of 10 people around the world breathe air that does not meet WHO’s recommended air quality standards. Air pollution kills 7 million people every year.
  • Increased risk of respiratory diseases, heart conditions and even dementia
  • Vulnerable groups like children and the elderly being disproportionately affected

Top 5 Sources of Air Pollution

  • Burning Fossil Fuels – Power generation & heating
  • Industrial Emissions – Manufacturing & incineration
  • Transportation – Vehicle emissions, especially diesel
  • Agriculture – Ammonia & methane from livestock/fertilisers
  • Household Pollution – Wood/biomass burning indoors

Spotlight: Industrial Emissions in UK Healthcare

Clinical waste incineration is a hidden contributor to air pollution. Here’s the reality:

  • 156,000 tonnes of clinical waste produced annually in England
  • £32 million spent on incineration per year
  • Equivalent to 400 jumbo jets worth of waste
  • Often burned, releasing toxic chemicals and greenhouse gases

The NHS Net Zero Plan sets ambitious goals:

  • 50% reduction in carbon from clinical waste by 2026
  • 80% reduction by 2028
  • Net Zero direct emissions by 2040, indirect by 2045

But with clinical waste forecast to increase 3% annually, we must act now.

If Incineration Is Inevitable: Choose Wisely

Burning Plastic

  • Releases toxic chemicals (dioxins, furans, PCBs)
  • Produces greenhouse gases
  • Contributes to smog and microplastic pollution

Burning Cardboard

  • Less toxic than plastic
  • Lower CO2 emissions
  • No microplastics
  • Compostable or recyclable

That’s why Nilaqua developed the 100% biodegradable large dry wipes IN a PLASTIC FREE OUTER, made from sustainably sourced wood pulp. These wipes are:

  • Super thick (50 GSM) and ultra-absorbent, so you use up to 50% fewer per application
    • Packaged in biodegradable FSC-certified boxes
  • Zero plastic, zero waste, and fully compostable
  • Aligned with upcoming UK legislation and NHS sustainability goals

By choosing biodegradable wood pulp instead of a plastic outer, we’re actively reducing the environmental and health impact before products even reach the incinerator. 

Bottom line? If you have to burn something, cardboard is far safer than plastic – for humans and the planet.

Did you know? Many products labelled as biodegradable are only around 50% biodegradable, with outer packagings still made from plastic – whereas Nilaqua is completely plastic-free.

Nilaqua’s Approach to Cleaner Choices

We’re not just here to help people stay clean – we’re here to clean up our supply chain too. At Nilaqua, sustainability is built into everything we do, that’s why we prioritise:

✅ Compostable, FSC-certified packaging

✅ Plastic-free materials wherever possible

✅ Local Sourcing to reduce transport emissions

✅ Supporting better purchasing decisions across healthcare and beyond

Solutions That Make a Difference

The good news? Solutions are already here – and they work:

  • Use cleaner energy sources
  • Make smarter purchasing choices
  • Choose recyclable and compostable packaging
  • Avoid plastic incineration wherever possible

Final Thought

Air pollution is the biggest environmental threat to UK citizens today.

But together, we can reduce its impact – through innovation, better choices and a shared commitment to a healthier future.

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