Newark and Sherwood District Council launch Stop The Engine campaign in support of National Clean Air Day to cut air pollution across the district

A council has backed a campaign encouraging drivers to do their part in cutting vehicle emissions and air pollution.

The ‘Stop The Engine’ campaign is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of turning off the engine of an idling vehicle, and the harmful impacts of air pollution on both our environment and our health.

It has been launched in support of Clean Air Day, the UK’s largest air pollution campaign.

As part of this, Newark and Sherwood District Council is reaching out to the community to help improve air quality across the district, with the authority stating that it ‘believes in a future where everyone can breathe clean air and thrive in a healthy environment.’

They add that an idling car produces enough exhaust emissions per minute to fill 150 balloons with harmful chemicals including cyanide and nitrogen oxides.

The council say they are working with members of the community is vehicle idling hotspots such as schools, hospitals and bus stops, as the age groups frequenting these locations, such as children and older people, are particularly sensitive to the harmful effects of air pollution, which can cause heart and lung disease, strokes and cancer.

An informative leaflet has been created to be distributed to pupils, parents and carers in all schools across the district.

Jenny Walker, the council’s business manager for public protection, said: “We know targeting air pollution, especially around schools is important to many of our residents.

“We are proud to proactively work with schools and parents to address this.

“Our new campaign is set to raise awareness about the harmful effects of idling.

“Not only are our children disproportionately affected due to schools being hotspots for vehicle idling, but they are also much more at risk from the harmful pollutants that can lead to respiratory issues and reduced cognitive function in children. Our children deserve better.

“The message of our campaign is very simple, turn off your engine when your car is parked and encourage others to do the same.”