What is Clean Air Day?
Clean Air Day, run by Action for Clean Air, is an annual campaign aimed at raising awareness of air pollution and its associated risks. It also provides an opportunity to engage individuals, businesses, and communities in activities that promote more sustainable practices to collectively improve air quality.
Why Does Clean Air Matter?
While many of us take clean air for granted, pollution is all around us, and there is always work to be done. Reducing air pollution isn’t just about reversing climate change; it’s essential for improving public health, protecting the environment, and benefiting the economy. Click below to learn more:
Breathing cleaner air will reduce the risk of premature mortality from illnesses such as lung cancer, stroke and heart disease, as well as respiratory issues such as asthma. People living in more deprived communities are also more likely to be impacted by pollution, with research showing that those living in the areas of highest deprivation tend to be closest to major roads, and in densely populated areas.
A healthier population means less burden on the NHS, and healthcare expenditure could be better utilised across the health sector. When people are feeling well, this leads to increased productivity and fewer sick days, leading to increased economic output.
Reducing pollution in the air will also produce a healthier ecosystem; a reduction in acid rain and nitrogen pollution will contribute to the health of plant life for a balanced ecosystem.
How can you get involved?
It’s easy to assume that one person’s actions won’t make a difference, but when there is a collective effort from a lot of people making small changes, big change can happen. Here are five key ways to help:
- Reduce vehicle emissions: choose an alternative mode of transport to make journeys more sustainable, such as walking, cycling , public transport, particularly for shorter journeys. Where driving is necessary, consider car sharing with friends or colleagues, or look into an electric vehicle scheme.
- Advocate cleaner energy: why not review your home energy provider and consider switching to one that offers renewable energy, rather than traditional fossil fuel. In addition, when replacing home appliances, look for ones that are more energy efficient by reviewing the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) that is found on many appliances today.
- Create green spaces: planting trees and plants is a great way to maintain and expand green spaces. Trees can absorb pollution in the air and act as a natural filter, as well as creating extra biodiversity and homes for wildlife.
- Spread the word: Do your friends or family know about NCAD? If not, it’s the perfect opportunity to spread awareness of the campaign and share some of the easy changes that can be made.
- Engage with your local authority or MP: the Clean Air Day website has an online form that generates a letter, asking them to commit to championing clean air in government policy.
What action is Rise taking?
Rise remains committed to being a greener organisation and are proud to be in our fourth year of undertaking the Investors in the Environment Award. In addition, our Board-approved Sustainability Action Plan details the actions we will take to continue to tackle climate change.
Our Cycle to Work Scheme allows staff to purchase a bicycle and cycling equipment through tax-free salary sacrifice. Additionally, we have signed up to an Electric Vehicle (EV) salary sacrifice scheme, allowing staff to lease a 100% electric car through our approved partner.
We encourage car sharing or use of public transport where possible, to attend meetings or team events, and staff book walking meetings with colleagues, where appropriate. Rise staff have also undertaken numerous litter picks and will continue to do so to ensure the spaces where we live, work and socialise are kept tidy.
As an organisation, we will remain committed to our collective effort to implement small changes that have meaningful impact, and continue to learn and share best practice, because living with clean air shouldn’t depend on who you are or where you live; it is everybody’s responsibility.
