DRIVERS are being encouraged to turn off their engines through the launch of a new primary schools campaign in Warwickshire.
The county’s road safety education team’s ‘Cars Idling Campaign’ aims to encourage everyone who must travel by car to cut out engine idling by switching it off when stationary.
The campaign primarily focuses on drivers who wait with their engines running outside schools.
Idling increases the amount of exhaust fumes in the air and these fumes contain harmful gases which pollute the environment, contribute towards climate change, and are linked to health conditions such as respiratory illnesses and lung and heart disease.
By stopping engine idling, drivers will reduce fuel costs and save money, improve air quality, and reduce air pollutants which can help cut heart disease, reduce lung cancer and prevent asthma attacks.
By reducing the amount of fuel being used, drivers will improve air quality.
Throughout March 26 primary schools across Warwickshire – including Coughton C of E Primary School – will be launching the campaign. The schools will receive a banner for its railings, a digital animation offering advice and guidance for parents and carers and an article for newsletters.
The banner and animation encourage all drivers to switch their engine off.
County Councillor Heather Timms, portfolio holder for the environment added: “It may seem like a small step to take, but if we all switch off our engines when our cars are stationary, we can significantly reduce harmful carbon emissions and at the same time make the air safer for us all to breathe.”
