Environmental education for children at City Hall on Clean Air Day
Children from 13 Bradford schools gathered on Thursday (June 19) to learn about the impact of air pollution.
The gathering, which took place on Clean Air Day, saw students taking part in hands-on activities at City Hall.
They learnt about the workings of hydrogen fuel cars; explored sources of pollution in the home; and even designed their own low emission Lego cities.
Children also had the opportunity to explore active travel routes and consider nature-related challenges.
Partners from National Education Nature Park, Born in Bradford, and the Climate Ambassadors led sessions, as did Bradford Council's Sustainability Service and the Living Well and Active Travel teams.
In the words of a spokesperson for City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, "schools in Bradford continue to be supported" by the Clean Air Schools programme, which is funded by funds generated from the Bradford Clean Air Zone.
A spokesperson said: "Cleaner air has health benefits for everyone, but especially for the elderly and young children, as well as those with existing health conditions.
"Pollutants in the air that have been traced to vehicles can lead to respiratory infections, decreased lung function, and heart problems, and can worsen symptoms of asthma.
"Removing or limiting the number of polluting vehicles that can enter a city or town centre will improve its air quality, having a positive impact on the health of those living and working there."
A spokesperson said that "the impacts of air pollution are felt by everyone, but not equally," and referred to potentially higher levels of air pollution exposure for those who live close to a busy main road, or in an area where many people have wood burning stoves.
Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council's executive member for healthy people and places, said: "Clean Air Day is a great way for everyone to learn more about why any amount of air pollution can be damaging to our health.
"It is fantastic to see so many schools taking part in this event and also our Clean Air Schools Programme, from assemblies and class workshops to grants and anti-idling activities - all designed to reduce air pollution and improve the health of our residents.
"The Bradford Clean Air Zone is really making a difference: air quality is reducing both inside and outside the Clean Air Zone, and health benefits are being realised across the district."
More information about the Clean Air Hub is available at https://www.cleanairhub.org.uk/
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