Schools to benefit from £5m fund to tackle air pollution

Many schools are set to benefit from £5 million government funding for innovative projects to improve air quality.

The money, from the government’s Air Quality Grant, helps councils develop and implement measures to benefit schools, businesses and communities from air pollution.

Bedford Borough Council has won funding for schools to encourage behaviour change for reduced car journeys and anti-idling, as well as organise school street closures at pick up and drop off times.

Cherwell District Council will use funding for an anti-idling campaign at schools, level crossings, hospitals and doctor’s surgeries.

Liverpool City Council meanwhile will deliver a project on particulate matter in schools, supported by Air Quality data gathered by pupils with portable monitoring devices.

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said: “Air pollution has improved significantly since 2010 but remains the greatest environmental risk to human health.

“This funding demonstrates our commitment to improving our air and also our openness to innovation, through pioneering initiatives such as campaigns to encourage greater use of electric bikes and education programmes teaching children about the harms of fine particulate matter.

“We know local authorities are in the best position to address the issues they face in their areas. These projects demonstrate how they can deliver innovative solutions for their communities and we will continue to work with them closely to offer ongoing support.”