Breathe easy: city council urged to be bold with low-emission zone

The British Lung Foundation has called on councillors in Edinburgh to adopt ambitious proposals for a low emission zone in the city, following publication of proposals to radically overhaul traffic and transport priorities in Edinburgh.

Papers presented to the City of Edinburgh Council’s Transport and Environment Committee yesterday reveal radical options to overhaul Edinburgh’s transport network and encourage active travel. The proposals include options to pedestrianise key streets in the city and implement a low emissions zone – proposals which could improve public health in Edinburgh for generations to come.

Commenting on the proposals, Joseph Carter, Head of British Lung Foundation Scotland, said: “Air pollution is bad for everyone’s health, but it’s especially dangerous for people living with lung disease and for children whose growing lungs can be permanently damaged by it.

“Air pollution robs the public purse too – a recent scientific study revealed that more people are admitted to hospital during periods of high air pollution, which puts extra strain on frontline NHS services.

“Poor air quality must be recognised for what it is – a major public health crisis. It is unacceptable that many people find themselves gasping for breath in our towns and cities because of the toxic fumes spread by older diesel vehicles. Reducing the level of noxious pollutants in Edinburgh’s air must be a priority in the coming years.

“We welcome the ambition of the council, particularly the commitment to introduce a programme of “open streets” days, where streets are closed off to vehicles for a whole day, making them safer and more appealing for walking and cycling. However, we want to make sure that Edinburgh has cleaner air all the time, not just a few days a month.

“That’s why it’s essential that the city’s Low Emission Zone, which has to be in place by 2020, is effective in actually reducing the number of highly polluting vehicles on Edinburgh’s roads. We will be urging Councillors to take the bold steps needed to ensure that everyone in Edinburgh can breathe easier in the years to come.”