Clean Air Day: Why Clean Air Still Matters (and What We Can All Do)
Every year, air pollution causes up to 36,000 deaths in the UK. Both the World Health Organisation and the UK Government recognise air pollution as the largest environmental health risk we currently face. Clean Air Day, held annually in June, exists to raise awareness of the harm caused by air pollution — and to remind us that a cleaner, healthier future is possible. Although this post marks Clean Air Day 2022, the message remains just as important today. Clean air isn’t something we should think about for just one day a year; it’s something that affects our health, climate, and communities every single day. Estimated reading time: 8 minutes Why Does Clean Air Day Matter? Clean Air Day focuses attention on air pollution by encouraging people across the UK to act together on the same day. This collective approach helps the message reach new audiences, improves public understanding, and increases the number of people taking action to reduce pollution. Awareness is growing. The majority of people now report doing at least one thing to reduce outdoor air pollution, and public support for prioritising clean air has increased significantly in recent years. Clean Air Day also shows decision‑makers that there is widespread support for the changes needed to protect public health and the environment. From more electric vehicle charging points and e‑bikes on our roads to innovative solutions like cleaner delivery services, Clean Air Day highlights that progress is possible — and already happening. Why Does Air Pollution Matter for Everyday…