UK Environment Secretary launching new Clean Air Strategy
Environment Secretary Michael Gove is launching the UK government’s new Clean Air Strategy today (22 May).
According to a statement issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), today’s proposals are in addition to the government’s £3.5bn plan to reduce air pollution from road transport and diesel vehicles, set out in July last year.
The DEFRA statement added: “It is estimated that the action set out today will reduce the costs of air pollution to society by an estimated £1bn every year by 2020, rising to £2.5bn every year from 2030.”
Amongst other measures, the government intends to introduce new primary legislation, which will give local government new powers to improve air quality.
DEFRA also announced that it will be publishing a research report today. According to DEFRA: “The report showed a lack of awareness of the wide range of sources of air pollution with most naming transport as the main cause. But transport emissions are only one part of the problem. From farming to cleaning solvents there are a large range of other day to day practices, processes and products that produce harmful emissions.”
The Environment Secretary commented: “Government cannot act alone in tackling air pollution. Our strategy sets out how we will work with businesses, farmers, industry and households to develop innovative new solutions to reduce emissions. It also highlights how we can all take action and playing an important role in cleaning up our air.”
