Air pollution is the biggest environmental risk to our health. Breathing in dirty air impacts us all and is linked to a range of health problems throughout our lives – from premature birth and childhood asthma to heart and lung disease, diabetes and strokes in later life.
Reducing levels of harmful air pollution in our communities will have immediate health benefits for us all, helping both children and adults live longer and healthier lives.
Cleaning up the air will not only improve everyone’s health, but it can also boost our local economy and help protect our natural environment.
Simple actions for cleaner air in Knowsley
Walk, cycle or use public transport
- Leave the car at home for short journeys.
- Use local walking and cycling routes.
Turn off your engine when parked
- Avoid idling
- It saves fuel and reduces harmful emissions.
Burn cleaner at home
- Use DEFRA-approved fuels and exempt appliances if you have a stove or fireplace.
- Never burn household waste or wet wood.
Ventilate your home
- Open windows regularly to reduce indoor air pollution from cooking, cleaning, and heating.
Shop local
- Support local businesses and reduce the need for long car journeys or deliveries.
Spread the word
- Share Clean Air Day messages on social media.
- Talk to friends, family, and neighbours about the importance of clean air.
More information and ideas on things you can do to reduce air pollution are available on the Clean Air Hub.
What is Knowsley Council doing?
Knowsley Council’s Air Quality Strategy 2024-2027 priorities aim to improve air quality across the borough, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment for residents and businesses.
The strategy was developed following extensive consultation with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. It aligns with the Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan and supports the Council’s goal of ‘Net Zero’ emissions from its own estates and services by 2040.
The plan outlines four key priorities: reducing emissions from domestic, commercial, and industrial sources; mitigating emissions from transport; raising public awareness and encouraging behaviour change; and improving indoor air quality.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, said: “By keeping our air cleaner and tackling pollution we can improve people’s health, boost our local economy and help protect our environment. There are some really simple measures we can all take – such as stopping unnecessarily idling our car engines – that can make a positive impact. Leaving the car at home and opting to walk to school or work is one of the simplest changes we can make.
“As a council we are committed to reducing emissions from our own buildings and services to net Zero by 2040 and improving local air quality will be one of the positives to come about as a result of this action.”
Find out more about Clean Air Day 2026 on our website.