Working together to improve air quality

Northumberland County Council is backing national Clean Air Day (Thursday June 18) which aims to highlight the negative impacts of air pollution on our health and the importance of everyone playing their part to improve the air we breathe. 

Clean Air Day is the UK’s largest annual air pollution campaign and is coordinated by the environmental charity Global Action Plan.

The campaign focuses on improving the public understanding of indoor and outdoor air pollution, highlighting its health impacts, and supporting people and organisations to adopt sustainable behaviours such as walking, cycling, or using public transport wherever they can. 

Northumberland County Council continues to prioritise air quality through its broader Air Quality Strategy, alongside a range of wider initiatives to improve environmental outcomes. These include the expansion of the Northumberland Line rail service, the promotion of walking, cycling and scooting, and the continued rollout of electric vehicle charging infrastructure to encourage greener travel. 

The authority also manages many parks, country parks and green spaces across the county as well as caring for an estimated 4 million trees. 

Each year, Northumberland County Council publishes an Air Quality Status Report, which provides an overview of local air quality conditions and trends.  Northumberland has consistently met the national Air Quality Objective limits.  

Northumberland County Councillor Gordon Stewart, Cabinet Member for Public Safety said: 

“Air pollution often goes unnoticed because we can’t see it, yet it has a significant impact on our long-term health. We are asking everyone in Northumberland to consider small, reasonable steps that make a big difference - from switching off your engine while stationary, opening windows to ventilate your home or choosing cleaner home heating alternatives.  

“While it is not always possible or practical, by driving less and walking or cycling more, we can reduce pollution and improve our collective wellbeing. These choices play a vital part in our county’s journey to net zero carbon, and by working together, we can ensure Northumberland remains a healthy place to live and breathe.”