Take public transport
Catching a bus or train on your daily commute can help reduce air pollution levels.
Australia's largest air quality monitor network
With over 200 air quality sensors, the air quality map covers more than 9,730km2.
Award-winning
Recognised at state and national levels for excellence and innovation.
Track whenever, wherever
Get hour-by-hour updates on air quality wherever you are in the Perth metropolitan area.Check the air quality in Perth
What we track
Particulate matter (PM)
PM2.5 and PM10 originate from a range of sources, including vehicle emissions, construction and industrial activities, and natural contributors such as wind-blow dust, bushfire smoke and sea-salt aerosols. PM can be inhaled into the lungs or enter the bloodstream, impacting cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
Transport in built-up areas can produce high levels of NO2 which have been linked to respiratory irritation and inflammation, heart problems, diabetes, adverse birth outcomes and cancer.
What you can do to reduce emissions
Walk or cycle instead
If you’re only travelling a short distance, consider walking or riding your bike rather than driving.
Embrace eco-driving
Small steps like keeping your tyre pressure up and servicing your car regularly can reduce fuel usage.
Go hybrid or electric
For your next car purchase, consider a hybrid or an electric vehicle (EV) to lower your emissions in the long run.
Supported by project partners
The RAC Air Health Monitor uses a network of advanced air quality sensors developed by Californian tech company, Clarity, whose next-generation sensors are trusted in over 70 countries. Using a model developed by global engineering firm, Ramboll, the monitor blends real-time pollution sensor data with real-time traffic data, motor vehicle emissions modelling and other sources to generate a localised visual of air pollution.
Learn more about how we’re moving towards a future of cleaner transport.
Frequently asked questions
How does RAC measure Perth air quality?
The RAC Air Health Monitor uses a network of more than 200 sensors, supported by an air quality model (Ramboll Shair) that fills the gap between monitoring locations and provides a detailed picture of local air quality. The modelling system combines inputs from our sensors with traffic emissions, meteorology and industrial activity.
We then share this information through our interactive air quality map, so you can access near real-time updates on the air you breathe and make informed decisions for your health and the environment.
What is air pollution?
Air pollution occurs when the air contains substances that impact and cause harm to humans, animals and the environment.
Air pollution is caused by:
- Motor vehicle emissions.
- Extracting and burning fossil fuels (oil, gas and coal).
- On-road vehicles such as cars, buses and trucks.
- Off-road vehicles and equipment such as dump trucks, bulldozers and marine vessels.
- Domestic activities such as burning wood fires, including using wood heaters, fuel-powered garden equipment and portable fuel containers.
- Natural sources such as bushfires, dust storms, sea salt and pollen.
- Commercial businesses such as spray painters, printers, quarries and service stations.
- Industrial activities such as coal mining, oil refining and power generation.
Why is air quality a priority for RAC?
Our Vision 2030 is for a safer, sustainable and connected future for Western Australians. To create a more sustainable future, we must eliminate harmful vehicle emissions, so current and future generations can enjoy healthier and cleaner air.
We’ve set ambitious targets for 2030, with social impact metrics which measure and track progress towards the following:
- Healthier air: Nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions per km travelled by car – 15% reduction in 2030 from a 2016/17 base (but capped at 10% increase in 2025 from the base).
- Cleaner air: CO2 emissions per km travelled by car – 20% reduction in 2030 from a 2016/17 base (3% reduction in 2025).
