Let’s take steps to protect our health from air pollution this #CleanAirDay on 16th June 2022.

Even though we can’t see it, air pollution impacts our health whatever age we are and can affect every organ in the body.

Children are especially vulnerable to the effects, with air pollution linked to low birth weights and poor lung development; it can even contribute to reduced intelligence and mental health issues.

The good news is there are simple steps we can all take to help us avoid toxic air and cut down on the pollution we cause. Any reductions in air pollution that we make will lead to health improvements for us and in our local community – we all have a part to play!

What can you do to improve air quality outside school

On Clean Air Day (Thursday 16th June), we would encourage you to walk to school if possible. Alternatively, you could walk part of the journey from a nearby location. You might also consider scooting or cycling some of the way with your child.

If you have to drive to school, please help to improve air quality by always switching off your engine whenever you are waiting and politely remind others to do the same. To find out more about York’s anti-idling campaign visit https://www.york.gov.uk/EngineOff

The Personal Air Pollution Calculator is a free to use online tool to work out how much pollution you produce, how you can reduce it and protect your health: https://calculator.cleanairhub.org.uk

To find out more about air quality and how to improve it, visit the Clean Air Hub website: https://www.cleanairhub.org.uk/