The impact air pollution has on Londoners is no one-day story; last week’s figures reveal an ongoing saga of suffering and misery for ordinary people (London air pollution leads to 9,500 early deaths a year, study says, 16 July). Every year the UK’s filthy air leads to up to 100,000 deaths, and many more people being diagnosed with respiratory illnesses. The supreme court has ruled against the government’s lack of action on air pollution, but no minister seems willing to drive change on the issue.
We need a national solution now. Part of this could be for the government to enable all schools, hospitals and other critical institutions to become local clean-air zones that would protect those most vulnerable from the insidious effects of pollution. Another option would be to bring forward the imposition of the ultra low emission zone in London and get those vehicles that pollute the most off our streets.
For too long we have treated this invisible smog as just that, invisible, failing to recognise that its growing death toll is a stain on our nation’s reputation. It’s time we took action.
Caroline Watson
Partner, Global Action Plan
