The ‘Engines off for every stop’ campaign gets underway today (22 February 2021) and Ealing is joining boroughs across London to tackle engine idling as a source of avoidable air pollution.

The new campaign aims to support local drivers in cutting down on the time spent with their engine running whilst stationary.

Switching off is the easiest way to minimise unnecessary pollution. With a simple change in behaviour drivers can make a big difference as we look to improve air quality across the borough and create a healthier and more environmentally friendly place for local people to live.

Every driver can play a role in helping improve air quality in Ealing. Even by switching off the engine for one minute whilst stationary, a single family-sized car or small van can prevent up to 420 litres of exhaust fumes being released into the atmosphere.

This could play a vital role in preventing harmful nitrogen dioxide (NO2) building up in local and residential streets. In the long term it could help reduce the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular health conditions in children and adults across the borough.

There is also emerging evidence that air pollution can increase vulnerability to the most severe impacts of COVID-19 – so doing everything possible to improve the quality of the air we breathe is more vital than ever.

Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council said: “We know that air pollution contributes to the early deaths of almost 9,500 Londoners every single year and that includes more than 380 here in Ealing.

“This is why we are joining with boroughs across the capital to support the ‘Engines off for every stop’ campaign and help spread the word on the positive changes drivers can make as we look to improve air quality for local people and the environment.

“Taking strong action to support sustainable travel choices will ultimately save lives. We have recently launched our Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy which underlines our ongoing commitment to increase active travel such as walking and cycling for short journeys. 

“Rollout of electric vehicles charging points is also continuing and the council’s target is for all residents to be within a five-minute walk of a charge point by 2025.”

• Further information on Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy can be found on the council’s website.