UK politicians recommend that new schools, care homes and hospitals are built away from polluted areas

A report written by a group of UK MPs has highlighted air pollution as a major public health crisis in the country.

The paper, produced by the Environmental Audit Committee, suggests a range of measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of air pollution on human health.  

Among these measures, the politicians recommend building new schools, care homes and hospitals away from major roads to avoid the health impacts of air pollution.

The committee’s report says traffic is responsible for 42% of carbon monoxide, 46% of nitrogen oxides and 26% of particulate matter pollution.

As such, the committee suggests offering people with diesel cars a financial incentive to swap for a less polluting engine, as well as promoting cycling and walking.

Read the original news article. 

Read the full report. 

This year’s Healthy Lungs for Life campaign focuses on the importance of having air that is free from pollution, passive smoke, dangerous gases and other toxins that can affect the airways. Visit the Healthy Lungs for Life website to find events in your area and find out how you can support the campaign.