High air pollution alert issued for London

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🗞️ Driving the news: A high air pollution alert has been issued for London after Imperial College London detected increased pollution levels from mainland Europe
• Light winds and local pollution sources are expected to worsen air quality
• City Hall advises Londoners to switch off vehicle engines when idling and avoid burning wood or garden waste

🔭 The context: London’s air pollution is a persistent issue, contributing to thousands of premature deaths annually
• City Hall issues alerts when pollution levels reach moderate, high, or very high levels, notifying residents via public transport signs and direct warnings
• Between 2018 and 2023, 19 high pollution alerts and 217 moderate alerts were recorded

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Air pollution poses severe health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups, and exacerbates respiratory and cardiovascular diseases
• It also contributes to environmental damage, affecting ecosystems and worsening climate change
• Tackling urban air quality is crucial for public health and sustainability goals

⏭️ What's next: London continues its efforts to reduce pollution through policies such as the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and promoting greener transport
• More frequent alerts may prompt further regulatory measures to improve air quality
• Residents are encouraged to take personal precautions and reduce emissions where possible.

💬 One quote: "This is particularly important in order to protect those who are most vulnerable." – Mete Coban, Deputy Mayor of Environment and Energy

📈 One stat: London's toxic air is linked to approximately 4,000 premature deaths annually

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