Air quality - What you can do

Everyone has the power to make our air cleaner. You can start right away and have a positive impact in your home and in your community, by cycling and walking instead of driving, or by planting trees in your garden. You can help improve the environment and your health.

Do your bit to improve air quality

Stop idling! If you own a vehicle, do not leave your engine running while stationary, as idling is a fine-able offence and contributes to polluting the air around you unnecessarily. We run regular anti-idling events across Lambeth, where we talk with people in idling vehicles and ask them to switch off. Join an anti-idling event near you or email sustainability@lambeth.gov.uk to find out more.

Give up your car for short distances. Walk or cycle instead, and use public transport for longer distances. We offer FREE cycle training for all abilities, and a Try Before You Bike scheme, where you can try a bike for under £20 and return it if you feel cycling is not for you. We also have a Silver Cyclist scheme, where you can ride with volunteers in Lambeth’s parks. Email cycling@lambeth.gov.uk or visit our Love Lambeth website - Cycling in Lambeth to find out more.

Gas combustion from boilers used for heating contributes significantly to emissions in London, specifically NOx. If you are a resident, check the Mayor’s website for support to potentially replace your boiler. If you are a small business, you might benefit from the Mayor’s Cleaner Heat Cashback.

Use energy wisely and check our tips to reduce energy at home and at work in our energy guide.

Keep up to date with air pollution levels

AirTEXT gives you air pollution forecasts for today and tomorrow in Lambeth. Download their mobile app to be alerted prior to high pollution episodes. You can also sign up to receive a daily text or an email, to keep yourself up to date with air pollution levels.

You can also check LondonAir pollution forecast and sign up for email forecast.

Avoid areas of high pollution

Walking or cycling from A to B? Avoid roads with dense traffic, as they have the highest pollution levels. You can find low pollution routes on the Mayor’s Clean Air Route Finder, and map your personal clean air route on WalkIt.

In case of high pollution episodes avoid where possible, strenuous activities outdoor and air pollution hotspots (e.g. busy roads). If you suffer from a respiratory or cardiovascular condition, read our guide to protect from air pollution.