Solutions in your community
Have a conversation
Although it is of huge importance to human health, studies have shown there is a need for greater awareness on the topic of air quality in Ireland.
One of the most effective and simplest ways to increase community engagement on the topic of air quality is by talking to people. Positive communication can break down barriers and involve people across the community.
Let’s get talking and spread the word!
Join a community group
People join interest-specific communities for a number of reasons. Regardless of the motivation, all reasons are valid, and participants often report positive impacts on their lives through their progressive contributions to their community.
Local community groups offer a chance to meet like-minded people and they offer a structure through which the community can lobby for change.
Community groups can influence legislators and politicians to prioritise building towards a more sustainable future.
Ask for change
Whether as an individual or as part of a group, it is important for your voice to be heard. Air pollution affects everyone in the community, therefore everyone has a role in improving air quality.
– Get in touch with your local councillor
– Write an open letter
– Share on social media
Interact with the illustration below
and see what you can do in your area to improve the air quality
Clean Energy
Energy production is the one of the fastest growing sectors in the Irish Economy. By using more renewable energy, we reduce air pollution and combat climate change at the same time.
Catching the train
Nothing beats the comfort of a train journey, reading a book, catching up on some work, or just switching off, all while the world flies by.
Bus it
It's so handy to catch the bus and go into town to meet friends or do some shopping.
Walk it
Going for a walk is great for clearing your head or meeting friends. No matter the weather, you will always feel better after a brisk walk.
Bike it
Consider cycling to work, to school or just for leisure. Even for just one day a week. It can be much quicker and cheaper to cycle.
Green Spaces
Taking a walk in your local park is good for your physical and mental health. Look out for all the wildlife around you.
Bike Sharing
Bike sharing makes it quick and easy to get around town.
Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles have many benefits, including:
· Cleaner environment
· Avoiding congestion charges
· Lower running costs
· Better driving experience
· They have zero emissions
Low-speed traffic zones
In many neighbourhood and residential areas, there is a 30km/h limit. This traffic calming measure makes our towns and cities our much safer for other road users.
Recycling
I try to avoid creating waste and repurposing or donating old stuff where I can. I make sure to separate my recyclables and green waste.
Talking about air quality
I was chatting to some of my friends and family who have asthma. They made me aware of how the air pollution affects them. We joined a community group and are working with our local councillors to improve the air quality in the area.
Clean Air Zone
Does your town or city have a dedicated Clean Air Zone? Learn about the benefits of dedicated areas for clean air in urban areas. Clean air zones can be safer, have less traffic and can result in better air quality.
Car Sharing
There are many advantages to car sharing:
- Saves money: Car sharing is a cost-effective alternative to traditional car ownership.
- Good for the environment: It reduces fuel costs, parking fees, and carbon emissions.
- Reduces congestion: Fewer cars on the road lead to shorter journeys.
- Improves overall health: Walking to and from car parks promotes wellbeing.
- More people have access to a car without buying: Car sharing fosters a sense of community.
Anti-idling
Our anti-idling campaign was very successful, we were giving sweets to people to turn off their engines when waiting in front of the school.
Citizen Science
Get involved in citizen science projects in your area. Find out more about the air quality in our local area.
Education
Ask an air quality expert to visit your school and give a talk. Get involved in a citizen science and school projects on air quality. Does your school have an anti-idling policy?
Workplace
If your work space is next to a busy road, consider installing an air purifier. It can help with pollen allergies and in the summer the air in the office can feel cleaner.
Create a ‘’green team’’ at workplace and brainstorm on ways your team can be more sustainable with energy use, travel, and heating your office. Turning down the heating dial by 1° C can make all the difference.
Raising awareness
There is a big change in public awareness on air quality as a health and environmental issue. People in our communities have become much more engaged and we are working on new initiatives to reduce air pollution in our local area.
School Streets
A School Street is a road outside a school with a temporary restriction on motorised traffic at school drop-off and pick-up times. The restriction can apply to school traffic and through traffic. The result is a safer, healthier and pleasant environment for everyone.
Planting for Air Quality
Planting native hedgerow in your school, in your garden and in your neighbourhood can help combat air pollution. Hedges can trap harmful particulates and air pollutants in the foliage.