Air quality is an increasingly relevant issue as it is evident on a local, national and global scale.
I am glad to mention, according to the Air Quality Index, Southend has low levels of air pollution. This is classed as ‘Good’, meaning that the air pollution in our area ‘poses little or no risk’ to our health.
I would like to maintain this by keeping our green areas and continue the Bell Junction Air Quality Action Plan. I wish to promote being environmentally friendly, whether this is walking when you can, recycling waste or being wary about wasting electricity.
Whilst the fresh sea air may be beneficial for us, this is still a national issue.
Nitrogen Dioxide has been the cause of an estimated 23,500 early deaths in the UK every year, as increased levels of pollutants in the atmosphere have increased the risk of having many serious illnesses such as bronchitis, asthma and lung disease.
From the recent long-lasting heatwave across England, to wildfires across Portugal and Spain, as well as severe floods in France, there is clear evidence that climate change is having a strong influence on the weather, heavily impacting people’s lives. This will continue if the UK does not sustain its efforts to reduce air pollution.
We can all do our bit to reduce our daily emissions as this issue affects everyone, not just in this constituency, so I urge you to alter your lifestyle and make a difference.