What you can do to help improve air quality

There are simple things you can do at home, work and when travelling which can improve local air quality.

These things can especially help reduce the emission of nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter (some of the main burdens on health from air pollution).

Switch off your engine when you're parked (avoid idling)

Vehicle idling is when drivers keep their engine on whilst parked or waiting.

You should avoid idling, especially near schools and busy streets. Idling for more than 10 seconds uses more fuel than restarting the engine, so it could also save you money.

Hold a campaign to help stop vehicle idling

View the resources available for holding an anti-idling campaign in your community, school or business.

Walk, wheel or cycle for short trips

If you can’t walk, wheel or cycle your whole journey, consider parking a short distance away from your destination and walk, wheel or cycle the rest of the way. This is called 'park and stride'.

Choose cleaner travel options

Some cleaner travel options include:

  • car-sharing
  • using public transport

When you need to get a new vehicle, you could also consider switching to one with lower emissions.

Drive more smoothly

Driving more smoothly can reduce emissions and use less fuel. This includes:

  • accelerating more gently
  • maintain a steady speed
  • make sure you have the correct tyre pressure

Avoid burning wood and garden waste

Use authorised waste collections. Only use appliances that are DEFRA-exempt and ready-to-burn fuel where relevant.

Improve home energy efficiency

You can improve home energy efficiency with:

  • draught-proofing
  • insulation
  • efficient heating controls (this can help to cut the amount of fuel burned for heat and power)

Use paints and household products that are low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)

VOCs are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature from household products.

They can cause headaches, nausea and respiratory irritation.

Use products that are low in VOCs and ventilate when using sprays, solvents and strong cleaners.

Reduce the amount of deliveries you receive

You can reduce the amount of deliveries by:

  • consolidating online orders
  • choosing slower delivery options when it's available

Make fewer journeys by combining errands

Reduce the number of trips you make when possible.

Report smoke or nuisance emissions

You can report smoke or nuisance emissions online.

You can also reduce exposure by:

  • choosing quieter back streets
  • walking or cycling away from the kerbside where possible
  • avoiding vigorous outdoor exercise next to busy roads