Walsall residents are being encouraged to play a role in creating cleaner, healthier air for all as Clean Air Day is marked on 19 June 2025.
Clean Air Day is a national campaign which focuses on taking collective action to tackle air pollution, increasing public awareness of the health harms of air pollution, and demonstrating support for clean air.
Air pollution remains a significant public health challenge and affects individuals from before birth through to old age. Although often invisible, air pollution is linked to a wide range of health issues throughout life, from premature births and effects on organ development in childhood, to heart and lung disease, diabetes and strokes in adulthood.
The impacts of air pollution are felt by everyone, but not equally and individuals may be exposed to higher levels of air pollution depending on where they live. Children, older people, pregnant women, and people with long-term health conditions can also be affected by the health effects of air pollution.
Walsall residents can take simple actions to improve air quality such as walking, cycling or using public transport for shorter journeys, swapping the roads for parks and greenspaces to exercise, turning off vehicle engines when parked or stuck in traffic, and not burning garden or building waste.
Residents can also help to improve air quality indoors, including using ventilation and extractor fans when cooking, safely using household products (such as sprays and aerosols), addressing mould, and considering home energy use such as removing log burners and opting for energy efficient alternatives.
“ Improving air quality is essential not just for human health but also for the environment. Many harmful air pollutants are also greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. I encourage everyone in Walsall to take simple, everyday actions that can make a big difference. “
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Walsall Council
Walsall Council recently launched its Net Zero 2041 strategy, setting a clear path for the borough to become a healthier, greener and more prosperous place to live, work and do business. The Net Zero 2041 Strategy can be viewed on the Walsall Council website.
Walsall Energy Action Project (WEAP) is a three-year initiative by Walsall Council and Community Hub partners. The project is funded by a £1.5m grant from The National Lottery Community Fund to educate and advise on energy efficiency improvements. Walsall residents can get support to be more energy efficient, save money on energy costs and take positive action against climate change through the Walsall Energy Action Project. Regular energy and advice sessions are taking place at Community Energy Hubs across the borough. For details of sessions, visit the Walsall Energy Action Project website.