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UK urged to get tough on air pollution, as Paris introduces restrictions on cars

news release

Commenting on car use restrictions in Paris aimed at combatting soaring air pollution, Friends of the Earth London Campaigner, Jenny Bates said: “The French are right to get tough on air pollution – it’s time we did the same in this country too.

“Tens of thousands of people die prematurely in Britain every year because of poor air quality, and the EU has now launched legal proceedings over our failure to tackle it.

“The situation is particularly bad in London, where Boris Johnson and the UK Government have done far too little.

“Strong and urgent measures are needed, including reducing London traffic levels, if we are to end this national scandal, and make it a capital city to be proud of.”

Traffic is the primary cause of London air pollution. Friends of the Earth says a number of measures should be considered to tackle it, including:

• The provisions of better and more affordable public transport;

• Making it safer and easier for people to cycle in the capital;

• An end to new road-building plans in London, including more river-crossings;

• Other measures to encourage people to leave their cars at home, such as an extension to the congestion zone and an increase in the congestion zone charge;

• Better public information about poor air quality;

• The introduction of emergency measures, such as those in Paris, when air pollution levels become dangerously high.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. Paris car ban starts after pollution hits high.  BBC

2. Air pollution: European commission launches legal action against the UK. Guardian.

3. Buckingham Palace: Pollution blackspot near royal residence.  BBC

4. Friends of the Earth air pollution briefing,

For press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.
Published by Friends of the Earth Trust

 

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