MEDACT: Air pollution is now the fourth leading cause of death worldwide.
Studies have shown high exposure to polluted air at a young age can cause chronic health problems that last a lifetime. In young children, air pollution can cause asthma and stunt lung growth by up to 10%. In older people, exposure has been linked to strokes, heart disease and diabetes.
After being compelled by the high court in May, the government reluctantly released its draft Air Quality Plan to tackle illegal and unsafe air pollution in the UK. But as it stands, we believe the plan is weak and incoherent, severely lacking in tangible actions and references to health.
The final version of the Air Quality plan is expected on the 31st of July. At Doctors Against Diesel, we are worried that the plans will still be inadequate, and we are anticipating a need for an even louder response from the health community.
It’s crucial that we make the voice of the health community heard on this issue. You can help us do that by:
Signing up to the campaign if you haven’t already – to keep up to date on our campaign plans, and be ready to join hundreds of health professionals in highlighting the urgent need for action on this issue
Sharing the campaign with colleagues and friends – using Twitter, Facebook or by directing them to our new campaign website
We need to see a transformation on our roads away from diesel, towards greener and cleaner road transport including Low Emissions Zones, restrictions around schools and greater encouragement of car clubs, walking, cycling and public transport.
Let’s work together to make this happen.
Carla Stephan
Campaigns Manager – Climate, Energy and Health
Our mission is to reduce the impacts of air pollution on children’s health
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