Local Authorities Snag £2.2 Million to Tackle School Air Pollution
Local councils across England are cashing in on a £2.2 million government boost to fight air pollution. The funding, from the Air Quality Grant, will back bold projects that cut harmful emissions, make roads cleaner, and promote healthier travel – especially around schools.
Cash to Clean Up School Air and Boost Active Travel
The fresh funding pot of £2,273,367 will bankroll initiatives like:
- Slashing pollution outside schools
- Backing more electric taxis on the road
- Building and upgrading cycling and walking routes
- Raising awareness about active transport
- Collecting data on pollution exposure for vulnerable people to shape better policies
Since 1997, the Air Quality Grant has pumped over £64 million into cleaning up England’s air.
Government Ministers Promise Cleaner, Healthier Communities
Environmental Minister Rebecca Pow: “Air pollution has dropped over decades but still hits UK communities hard. We’re backing councils to lead local action for cleaner air and healthier environments. These projects show councils can deliver smart, innovative solutions – and we’ll keep supporting them along the way.”
Transport Minister Rachel Maclean: “Clean air is vital for all of us. These grants help councils make greener, healthier places – from greener buses to better walking and cycling routes. We want low-carbon travel to be the new normal.”
Big Picture: Tackling Nitrogen Dioxide and Beyond
Air quality has improved dramatically – nitrogen oxide (NO2) levels are down by 33% since 2010. The Air Quality Grant is part of the UK Plan for Tackling Roadside NO2, supported by a huge £3.5 billion investment in cleaner transport and improved air quality.
So far, 61 local authorities are on board with £880 million in funding to cut NO2 fast, fairly, and smartly. The government also promotes low emission vehicles, cycling, walking, and cleaner public transit.
Meanwhile, the Clean Air Strategy – called “an example for the world” by the WHO – targets other major pollution sources. Recently, the government cracked down on domestic burning by phasing out coal and wet wood sales, tackling the toxic particulate matter (PM2.5) that poses the biggest health threat from pollution.
Local Schemes Cashing In on the Air Quality Grant
The latest round of funding is set to supercharge local projects across England, helping councils clear the air and protect public health. Stay tuned for updates on the schemes transforming communities with cleaner, greener solutions.
