'All' drivers in England warned to 'stop using' car 'one day a week'

Drivers have been urged to ditch vehicles with "mass car ownership dominating our cities" to mark Clean Air Day. Climate charity Possible has urged road users and motorists to make changes to their everyday habits to commemorate Clean Air Day on June 20.

Izzy Romilly, sustainable transport campaign and research manager at Possible, said: "Air quality in the UK regularly breaches the World Health Organisation's guidelines. We have let mass car ownership dominate our cities - choking our air, taking up space and blocking access to fresh air and nature.

"Action against air pollution goes hand-in-hand with action on climate change. If we want cleaner streets, we need to change how our streets are used - and that means fewer cars, more space, safer cycling, better and more affordable public transport, and lots more trees (all things that are good for the climate too)."

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Air pollution is linked to 43,000 deaths per year in the UK. The World Health Organization and the UK Government recognise that air pollution is the largest environmental threat to our health. Krishna Ramkhelawon, director of public health in Southend, said: "I encourage as many people as possible to submit their pledges for Clean Air Day and take those pledges forward.

"It's important that we take air pollution seriously for the health and wellbeing of residents, and I'm sure that, with enough of us working together, we can make a real difference to our air quality." Drivers are urged to "walk, wheel or use public transport" to reduce your exposure and contribution to air pollution.

"If you drive, try leaving the car behind on Clean Air Day and one day every week going forward," Southend Council explained. A series of Clean Air Day events and activities are planned throughout the week in the East of England, the council added.