What can I do?

We need energy to grow food, clean water, make things, and travel. This energy often comes from burning fuels like gas, oil, and coal, which pollutes the air and causes climate change. By using less energy, we can reduce pollution and help the planet.

How can I make a difference to air quality?

We can help by making personal actions to make a difference to air quality:

  • Travelling by bus or train

    By using cars less often, we can reduce pollution. Using public transport such as buses and trains where possible is better for the environment. Even using buses or trains as part of a longer journey is good for the air.

  • Walking and cycling

    If you’re only travelling 3 or less miles, walking and cycling are even better options than using buses or trains, and they are also good for your health.

  • Saving electricity

    Electricity can be saved through the following actions: turning lights off, using electronics such as TV, computers, mobiles, games consoles less and using the heating less often.

  • Saving energy

    Wearing an extra jumper at home or closing windows when the heating is on is a great way to reduce the amount of gas you burn in the central heating.  The best temperature to heat your home to for both the planet and your health is about 18 °C, much more than 21 °C (unless someone in your family has a health problem) is bad for the air.

  • Reducing waste

    Waste can be reduced in several ways for example not wasting food, using a re-usable water bottle and donating items rather than throwing them away. For more information check out  our household waste information page here.

  • Recycling

    Recycling helps save a lot of energy! Find out what things you can recycle at home and at school! For more information check out Lewisham’s household waste information page.

    If your school does not have any recycling bins, perhaps you could ask your teacher if you can get some?

What are Lewisham doing?

  • School Streets

    School Streets are initiatives designed to create safer, healthier, and cleaner environments around schools. School Streets limit vehicular traffic outside schools, reducing reliance on cars and promoting active, sustainable travel.

  • Walking routes & maps

    Designed and produced for both Kender Primary School and Edmund Waller Primary School, with banners now displayed at each location to encourage active travel.

  • ​​​​​Hosted Clean Air Day events

    Featuring air quality workshops and anti-idling campaigns.

    Developed clean air maps with walking routes, distributed banners, and leaflets to the schools.