TheRetailer_Summer_19

Air pollution is invisible, but it’s in the air we breathe. The #AirWeShare campaign is exploring ways we can all reduce our exposure, cut pollution and add our voices to the call for cleaner air. There’s lots we can do to improve the #AirWeShare, and feel good at the same time. Here are five tips to reduce your exposure to air pollution and make a positive impact. Do share what you’ve tried, or your own top tips on social media #AirWeShare. FIVE THINGS WE CAN DO ABOUT AIR POLLUTION

1. Use cars less 

4. Burn less at home 

Where it’s easy to make the switch - choose public transport instead of taking a car.  If you walk or cycle you help keep the air clean, keep fit and are generally less exposed than you’d be in a vehicle. It’s a common misconception that cyclists and pedestrians are likely to have the highest exposure. Research suggests that this is not the case - and if you’re in car you can be more exposed to pollution, especially when sitting in traffic.

Fuel-burning in our homes contributes to pollution. By keeping your home cosy and insulating it well, you can turn down the thermostat, helping reduce pollution and saving you money on energy bills. If you need to burn solid fuels to heat your home, make sure your stove meets legal requirements and use smokeless fuels. More guidance can be found here.

2. Re-route your commute 

5. Make your voice heard

Travelling down back routes, away from busy roads can significantly reduce your exposure to polluted air. Try downloading CityMapper and selecting the ‘quiet route’, when looking for ways to get from a to b. 

Join a local group campaigning for change, such as Mums For Lungs and The Air Team, or get in touch with your employer or local MP to ask themwhat they’re doing to clean up our air. You can download a letter to your MP here.

3. Change  delivery habits

40% of us get deliveries to city centre workplaces, which directly creates more vehicles on the road - meaning more traffic and pollution. Use ‘click & collect’ as an easy, free alternative. If you’re looking for a pollution-free way of getting stuff about the city, pedal-powered cargo bike services such as Pedal-Me are popping up to deliver things (and sometimes people!), why not give it a go.

DO YOU LIVE IN LONDON? Be part of the #AirWeShare campaign. We’re looking for people who proudly want to get involved in public stunts, art installations or events that might happen in the future as part of the #AirWeShare campaign. Subscribe if you’re interested and want to stay in the loop.

the retailer | summer 2019 | 47