Birmingham Friends of the Earth Press Release: Birmingham’s Clean Air Zone
For Immediate release
Contact: Libby Harris, Birmingham Friends of the Earth Campaigner.
libby@birminghamfoe.org.uk 07955290582
Birmingham’s Clean Air Zone
Libby Harris from Birmingham Friends of the Earth said
“The introduction of the Clean Air Zone is a necessary step in the fight to tackle the harmful and illegal levels of NO2 and particulate matter in the air in our city.
Air pollution contributes up to 1,000 premature deaths each year in Birmingham. Motor traffic is a key contributor to this. We do recognise that certain groups may be more adversely impacted than others by the financial cost of adapting to the CAZ but (as environmentalists) we also recognise that a clean air, low car strategy will bring long-term health benefits to all of us. We would urge the council to do more to help disadvantaged groups to access more financial support.
The CAZ should only be the first step in tackling poor air quality. We also need improved walking and cycling infrastructure and more investment in public transport. We fear that if the CAZ was abandoned now it would remove incentive for people to take measures to change the way they travel to less polluting forms.”.
ENDS
Notes
1. Birmingham Friends of the Earth believes the environment is for everyone. We want a healthy planet and a good quality of life for all those who live on it. We inspire people to act together for a thriving environment. We campaign on a range of issues including climate change, biodiversity, waste, transport and food. For further information visit www.birminghamfoe.org.uk
