Vale of White Horse District Council
Abbey House, Abbey Close,
Abingdon, OX14 3JE
Email: comments@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Telephone: 01235 520202

Vale of White Horse District Council

How to help improve air quality

We can all help to reduce air pollution – here are some ideas from the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) on ways in which people can do this.

On the road:

Road vehicles are a major source of many pollutants in urban areas. Before using your car, ask yourself:

• Do I really need to make this journey?
• Could I walk or cycle instead of taking the car?
• Could I take a bus, tram or train?
• Are the levels of air pollution already too high today?

If you must drive:

• Start your engine only once you are ready to move off
• Drive smoothly - you'll save fuel, and your engine will also pollute less
• Don't rev your engine unnecessarily
• Keep to the speed limit
• Maintain your car - keep the engine properly tuned and the tyres at the right pressure
• Turn off the engine when your car is stationary.

At home:

• Buy water-based or low-solvent paints, varnishes, glues and wood preservatives
• Avoid burning solid fuels if possible
• Avoid lighting bonfires, but if you must, don't light them when pollution levels are high or while the weather is still and cold. Only burn dry material and never burn household waste, especially plastic, rubber, foam or paint. Levels of pollution can be quite high on bonfire night and other events/festivals with bonfires, and sensitive people, including people with respiratory conditions, may notice some effects.