Westminster has the tech to tackle poor air quality in schools
We know that air pollution disproportionately affects young people – that’s why improving air quality around schools is a top priority for us.
Our work in this area includes running a programme of auditing and monitoring at schools across the borough, with the aim of improving air quality and reducing pupil and parents’ exposure to harmful pollution
To measure air quality outside schools we're using diffusion tube testing to help us build a picture of what air quality looks like throughout the school year.
We've worked with WSP and the Public Realm and Highways team to carry out full air quality audits for schools. These provide recommendations on how to improve air quality levels within school buildings, playgrounds and on local roads.
To support primary schools to take forward recommendations we have established a £1 million Schools’ Clean Air Fund. School can apply for up to £10,000 each to spend on building, premises and highway improvements, and green infrastructure.
Schools have already benefitted through the installation of air filtration systems, of signage to warn against engine idling and of new planting around perimeter fencing.