18.03.20
£2.2m boost for local authorities to tackle air pollution
More than £2.2m has been granted to local authorities across England today (Mar 18) as a part of a government push to improve air quality.
The funding comes from the government’s Air Quality Grant, and will support innovative projects and local schemes aimed at developing new air quality improving measures in partnership with local councils.
Schools, businesses and residents are set to benefit from the new funding, as cleaner and healthier environments are created within communities, improving the health of the wider population.
Projects and campaigns approved for funding include those looking at reducing harmful emissions outside schools, encourage the roll out of electric taxis, more active transport options and collect further data on air pollution exposure.
Today’s announcement brings the total awarded through the Air Quality Grant to £64m since it was launched in 1997.
Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said:
“While air pollution has reduced significantly in recent decades, we know the impact that it continues to have on communities in the UK. That is why the government is committed to not only improving air quality on a national level, but also helping local authorities take action in their own areas.
“The projects supported by this latest round of funding demonstrate how local authorities can deliver innovative solutions for their communities, and we’ll be working with them closely to offer ongoing support.”
Since 2010, nitrogen oxide (NO2) levels are down by 33%, and a partnership between government and 61 local authorities continues to use the Air Quality Grant to reduce these levels in the shortest time possible.
For a list of Local authority’s receiving funding in this round, please click here.