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How can we reduce Air Pollution Levels?

As Londoners, we’re all aware of the unavoidable growing problem of air pollution in our beloved capital. The tragedy of recent air pollution associated health events highlight the facts and demonstrate how close we are to breaking point. One major factor in this is traffic-related pollution. CO2 emissions from cars contribute to 13% of the current UK total - London, in particular, suffers from this traffic-related pollution.

With global climate conversations ever-present in our daily lives, we need to act now if we are to reduce local air pollution and combat the problem of dirty air where we live, once and for all.

Government Strategies

When it comes to cleaner air, there are a number of ongoing initiatives by both London City itself and the government.

The Mayor of London has championed several clean air initiatives during his tenure. Notably, ULEZ aims to clean up London's air by excluding the most-polluting vehicles or charging them a steep fee to use the city's roads.

The UK Government’s Clean Air Strategy bill will hit two air targets by October 2022. The plan includes 10 million pounds worth of investment to improve modelling, data and analytical tools to precisely define air quality. The approach seeks to set some ambitious, long-term targets to reduce human exposure to harmful pollutants.

With these changes in attitude, what else can we do in our communities and as individuals to tackle pollution and aid the recovery of better air?

Community Initiatives

Londoners are a resourceful bunch, so it’s no surprise that local organisations and communities are finding enterprising ways to reduce air pollution, such as:

The non-profit action group runs projects across the Borough of Camden to support better air quality and, in turn, spark behavioural change. The scheme now partners with Zipcar to enable residents access to a fleet of over 300 fully electric vehicles and a car-sharing service - helping people to make more sustainable choices when it comes to driving.

A charity that aims to create a walking nation. By educating and empowering people, Walking Works strives to reverse the decline in walking - whether that's inspiring walking to school, the office or the shops, their mission is clear.

Established by a group of young BIOPC advocates, their campaign efforts focus on applying pressure to local governments to develop strategies that preserve the right to clean air - now and for future generations to come.

We’re all aware that mums are essentially superwomen, so it’s no wonder that this grassroots organisation is tackling the issue of air quality head-on. From a pioneering initiative to get more people cycling and walking their kids to school to campaigning for better air legislation and improvements

Read more about some of the innovative projects and groups across London working alongside local communities in support of cleaner air.

How can we reduce Air Pollution?

If this is all cause for concern, there are plenty of ways to help reduce air pollution in your area. Here are our suggestions for some easy steps you can take to lessen the impact.

Switch to car sharing or use a service such as Zipcar to reduce the number of trips you take in your car by only using it when necessary.

Take public transport where possible – walking and cycling are great exercises, and they're free! Check out these top traffic-free cycle routes across London.

Recycle and reuse – buy less stuff and reuse or mend what you purchase instead of throwing it away.

Keep an eye out for changes to local developments and policies that focus on air pollution. Introduced in 1995, the Environment Act demands local authorities regularly review air quality in their area.

Where to start?

You can do your bit for the environment with Zipcar. Our popular car-sharing service is one way to reduce your carbon footprint and help lower emissions. Sustainable carpooling reduces single-occupancy trips, which means fewer cars on the road. *

*Our commitment to a greener fleet adds up to cleaner air in our communities. You could reduce your carbon footprint by up to £1,600 a year.

All you need to book a Zipcar is a valid credit or debit card. You won’t even need to organise insurance as Zipcar cover this for you.

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How can we reduce Air Pollution Levels?

With global climate conversations ever-present in our daily lives, we need to act now if we are to reduce local air pollution and combat the problem of dirty air where we live, once and for all.

Government Strategies

When it comes to cleaner air, there are a number of ongoing initiatives by both London City itself and the government.

ULEZ

ULEZ

Clean Air Strategy Bill

Clean Air Strategy Bill

Community Initiatives

Londoners are a resourceful bunch, so it’s no surprise that local organisations and communities are finding enterprising ways to reduce air pollution, such as:

The Camden Clean Air Initiative

The Camden Clean Air Initiative

Walking Works

Walking Works

Choked Up

Choked Up

Mums for Lungs

Mums for Lungs

How can we reduce Air Pollution?

If this is all cause for concern, there are plenty of ways to help reduce air pollution in your area. Here are our suggestions for some easy steps you can take to lessen the impact.

Sustainable driving

Sustainable driving

Public Transport, and Other Travel Options

Public Transport, and Other Travel Options

Recycle and Reuse

Recycle and Reuse

Support Clean Air Legislation

Support Clean Air Legislation

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