What can I do to improve air quality?
Everybody contributes to air pollution, and so everyone has a role to play in helping improve the quality of the air we breathe in Lambeth.
Try using sustainable transport
Cars are seen by many people as convenient and comfortable. However, many trips could be made by alternative modes. For instance: one-third of car journeys made in London are under one mile and could be easily walked or cycled.
Cycling
Cycling is an ideal mode of transport for getting around London, it is fast, cheap and - most of all – fun. Cycling is suitable for all ages and all sizes. If you would like to cycle but are nervous about getting on a bike, or are already a regular cyclist and feel you could do with a few tips, Lambeth provides cycle training either free or at a discounted price.
Walking
Walking is ideal for journeys which are up to two miles. Walking is an inexpensive mode of transport and can also help to improve health and fitness.
For more information on walking and cycling visit walking and cycling.
Public transport
The borough is also well served by public transport. For more information on getting around by bus, train or the underground check out TfL’s Journey Planner - or telephone the TravelLine on 020 7222 1234.
Greener motor vehicle use
Shared use
Lambeth Council, in partnership with Carplus - the national charity promoting responsible car use - are committed to promoting more thoughtful car use in the borough.
We recognise that cars are useful for residents.
We are also acutely aware of the environment, social and health costs associated with cars (and other vehicles such as motor bikes) today.
As a result, we promote car clubs which provide pay-as-you-go cars to their members on an adhoc or needs basis.
For more information, see our Car Clubs web page.
Driving style
Adopt a smoother driving style and service your vehicle regularly to help cut air pollution.
Top ten driving tips:
- Drive defensively – avoid harsh acceleration and heavy braking wherever possible. Remember that pulling away too fast uses up to 60% more fuel
- Concentrate – look ahead, anticipate the road conditions and actions of others. You’ll be less likely to have an accident and will reduce fuel consumption
- Use the gearbox efficiently- changing gear between 1500 and 2000 rpm can reduce fuel consumption.
- Drive off quickly when starting from cold – idling to heat the engine wastes fuels and causes rapid engine wear.
- Don’t pump the accelerator or rev the engine unnecessarily – this simply wastes fuel.
- Avoid short journeys – a cold engine uses almost twice as much fuel while catalytic converters can take five miles to become effective.
- Stick to speed limits and make your fuel go further- driving at 70mph uses up to 30% more fuel than 50mph.
- Plan your journeys – to avoid congestion, roadworks and getting lost.
- Check your tyre pressure regularly – under-inflated tyres wear out more quickly and increase fuel consumption by up to 3%.
- If you’re stuck in a jam, switch off- turning off the engine after 2 minutes will save fuel and cut all emissions.
Alternative fuels
Consider purchasing a cleaner vehicle, or switching to alternative fuel. Alternative or green fuels include LPG, natural gas, electricity and bio diesel. In the borough there are 3 LPG fuelling stations:
- Sainsbury’s Supermarket, Nine Elms Store, 62 Wandsworth Road, Vauxhall, London SW8 2LF
- Jet Streatham Place Filling Station, 2-22 Streatham Place, Streatham Place, Streatham, London, SW2 4QY
- Andy’s Gas Deliveries Ltd, 378 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 4TE
For further information visit the energy saving trust website.