Improving air quality

International Measures

• Developed countries provide money and technology to developing countries to use clean forms of power. (The UK has helped Indonesia build hydroelectric schemes but this is opposed by some environmental groups because of the habitats that are destroyed)

• Agree to stop using polluting fuels by a set date. (The Kyoto Agreement set targets for the reduction in emissions of carbon dioxide but the agreement has not been adopted)

National measures

• Invest in renewable energy sources to reduce the use of polluting fuels.( hundreds of wind turbines have been built across the UK and there are plans for building many more off shore.)

• Develop a transport policy that encourages use of public transport instead of private cars and lorries. (Many towns have Park and Ride schemes and Manchester has built a new system of trams)

• Raise taxes for people who wish to continue using polluting vehicles and energy resources. (The UK government recently introduced a new system of taxing vehicles that depends on the amount of carbon dioxide they produce.)

Local measures (in our area)

• Think of ways to reduce use of cars and encourage people to walk, cycle or use public transport. (Find out about any new Park and Ride systems, new bus services or new cycle paths in your neighbourhood.)

• Encourage the building of homes that use little electricity and provide shops and schools for people within walking distance. (Find out if new homes are more efficient than old ones. Are any new housing estates being built that encourage the use of bicycles and public transport.)

Individual measures

• Use energy saving ideas in your home• Walk or cycle on short journeys and encourage

friends and family to do the same• Use carbon monoxide testers to check on gas

and liquid fuel fires