What you can do to help
We can all play our part in helping reduce air pollution by making small changes to the way we travel, especially for shorter journeys.
You may even have noticed an improvement in air quality during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly during the first lockdown, largely as a result of the reduction in traffic on the roads and increased walking and cycling.
We would like to see those trends continue and have been implementing a number of measures across the county to encourage increased walking and cycling as part of our Safer, Greener, Healthier initiative.
By swapping some journeys to cycling, walking or public transport, we can help improve the air we all breathe.
Walking and cycling not only helps take cars off the road and improve air quality, but also has significant health benefits. Even 30 minutes of walking a day can help to improve your energy levels and mental health, while just a 15-minute cycle ride twice a day would meet the Government’s recommended minimum level of physical activity for adults.
People who cycle are also likely to be less stressed and are more productive. Employers can encourage their staff to hop on a bike through the Government’s Cycle to Work tax incentive scheme.
Could you swap some car journeys to cycling, walking or public transport, especially for shorter trips? Our Stop.Swap.GO! campaign is making getting around Essex by bus, bike or on foot easier and more rewarding than ever before.
If travelling differently isn’t an option, could you consider a hybrid or electric vehicle when next replacing your car? Find out more about the latest Government grants available.