Laura Sharman 10 December 2020

Councils warned to push ahead with clean air zones

Air pollution exceeds pre-pandemic levels in 80% of places despite continued lockdown restrictions, new research has uncovered today.

A study by the Centre for Cities found that some cities such as Barnsley, Bournemouth and Portsmouth actually had higher NO2 levels in September compared to before the first lockdown.

It is calling on councils to push ahead with stalled pollution reduction plans in order to avoid a significant drop in air quality next year.

The research shows that home working is not enough to keep air pollution low because remote workers are more likely to use their car for leisure purposes and not for commuting. 

Centre for Cities’ chief executive Andrew Carter said: ‘Toxic air has contributed to the deaths of thousands of COVID-19 victims this year and, even after the pandemic ends, will remain a big threat to health – particularly for those living in urban areas.

’City leaders can reduce the threat of air pollution, but it will take political will. Discouraging car usage will be unpopular in the short-term but, if coupled with the necessary improvements to public transport, the long-term benefits to public health and the economy will be huge and our cities will become better places to live. Now is not the time for politicians to delay on this.’

Centre for Cities is calling on councils to introduce clean air zones that charge drivers, improve public transport systems, and improve active travel infrastructure.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Part Time Legal Caseworker - Corporate and Commercial Law

Essex County Council
£25081.00 - £27653.00 per annum + Pro Rata
Part Time Legal Caseworker - Corporate and Commercial LawPermanent, Full Time£25,081 to £27,653 per annum, full time equivalentLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Education Safeguarding Adviser

Essex County Council
£36375.0000 - £42794.0000 per annum
Education Safeguarding AdviserFixed Term, Full Time£36,375 to £42,794 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Enviro Crime and Enforcement Officer

Royal Borough of Greenwich
SO2 - £38,934 to £40,755
Make a real difference in your community Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

White Rose Forest Landscape for Water Project Officer

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£38,220 - £40,777
The role of Landscapes for Water Project Officer and the White Rose Forest Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council

Finance Manager

Durham County Council
£66,164 to £68,493 p.a. (Band 2)
Are you an experienced finance leader ready to take on a high-profile role at the heart of a major organisational and financial transformation?   Durh Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner