We are committed to improving our air quality for our residents and visitors. Small changes can make a big difference when protecting ourselves. COVID-19 has highlighted that the way we live our lives is changing. Air pollution was greatly improved during the pandemic and continuous effort now will improve this further.
Poor and dirty air quality has been proven to have direct links to health consequences. This includes the onset of heart disease and cancer.
Older people and school children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution. This is due to their heights, stages of development and proximity to areas with higher emissions, for example at the school gates.
How you can improve air quality
1. Road use
- Reduce unnecessary trips or change the way you travel eg cycling, walking
- Car share where possible
- Switch off the engine when waiting – avoid idling
- Park further away from schools
- Regular maintenance of your vehicle
- When walking on roads, choose routes where less vehicles travel on
2. At home
- Use energy efficient appliances and devices eg lightbulbs
- Switch off home appliances (at the plug) and lights when not using
- Maintain your heating systems properly
- Regularly ventilate your property to avoid damp and mould
- Do not burn household waste – consider recycling, donating or arranging collections of certain items
3. Future considerations
- Consider walking and cycling - rather than using your car
- Public tansport – Consider using alternatives for your essential commutes
- Purchase an Electric Vehicle (EVs) – these are becoming increasingly more popular and attractive. Most brands now offer at least one EV within their ranges. These have cheaper running costs than traditional vehicles and are increasing in the number of charging points within towns.
Air quality reports
The Environment Act 1995 requires local authorities to regularly assess the air quality in their area for the key pollutants designated in the National Air Quality Strategy.
The Government requires local authorities to annually assess air quality in their area and produce an Annual Status Report. Where National Standards are not met Air Quality Management Areas must be declared and an Action Plan produced.