Poor air quality is a major health concern and harms the environment. It can come from many sources such as cars, planes, factories, and backup generators, all of which add pollution to the air we breathe.
Clean air and your health
Air pollution affects your health from before your first breath to your last.
Air pollution is linked to serious health problems, including heart and lung disease, strokes, diabetes, and developmental issues in children. By improving air quality, we can reduce illness and create a healthier, safer environment for everyone - now and for the future.
You can take simple everyday actions to reduce air pollution and protect your health.
Reduce pollution
Avoid burning coal or wood where possible, choose energy-efficient heating and cooking appliances.
Walk, cycle, or use public transport. If you drive consider switching to a low or zero-emission vehicle.
Turn off lights and electronics when you're not using them. Try using LED bulbs and explore renewable energy options like solar panels.
Protect yourself
Check the air pollution levels in your area each day. If pollution is high, follow advice from local or national authorities.
Speak to your doctor if you have health conditions that may be affected by air pollution.
Avoid exercising near busy roads or during peak traffic times when pollution is highest.
Keep car windows closed in traffic and avoid idling engines.
For more information on how to take action and raise awareness, visit the Clean Air Hub website.
Engine idling
Leaving your engine running when parked (idling) creates unnecessary pollution. Putting a stop to idling is a simple way we can all help to clean up the air that we breathe.
In Hillingdon, it is an offence to idle your engine unnecessarily when stationary. Drivers who leave their engines running risk being fined up to £100.
Across the borough, there is 'No idling' signage outside schools and at idling hotspots. If you or your school would like to find out more about our engine idling campaign or sign up to participate, email stars@hillingdon.gov.uk.
Parent Parking Pledge
We also encourage local schools to sign up to our Parent Parking Pledge - a scheme that sees parents sign-up to make a commitment to reduce pollution and improve safety around schools. It includes parents making promises, such as walking to school more and parking away from the school gates.
If your school would like to participate in our Parent Parking Pledge initiative, email stars@hillingdon.gov.uk.
Engine Off Every Stop campaign
Idling Action London, supported by the Mayor of London and 31 local authorities, has launched an advertising campaign called Engine Off Every Stop.
The council is responsible for developing and implementing air quality management duties. Our duties include the review and monitoring of local air quality, and the establishment of air quality management areas, to meet the national air quality standards.
