Kids converge on George Square for Clean Air Day

Published: 21 June 2018

Excited pupils from some of our city's primary schools headed to a sunny George Square today, set on enjoying an array of activities and exhibits to mark Clean Air Day.

The free event, highlighting the importance and benefits of clean air, proved very popular with adults too, with many making the most of the festivities and taking the opportunity to find out how they can help to make our air cleaner and healthier.

Activities and Attractions

Amongst the large number of attractions, there was an impressive display of electric vehicles which included a Tesla and BMWs. Those keen on active travel had the chance to try out an electric bike and speak to Sustrans about cycling initiatives. There was also lots of information available on the variety of ways to improve air quality such as renewable energy, car clubs and active travel.

School pupils were keen to join in on the fun with the road outside the City Chambers closed off to traffic so they could take on the Bikeability challenge.

The youngsters also had the opportunity to test their cycling skills on the twists and turns of a BMX pump track provided by the 2018 European Championships, with some of them lucky enough to meet Bonnie the Seal.

The charity Living Streets featured at the event to promote the benefits of walking to school, and those feeling energetic were able to make their own healthy drink using pedal power on the Smoothie Bike.

UK Alliance on Climate Change

As well as the event in George Square, the City Chambers also played host to the UK Alliance on Climate Change discussion, where the health benefits of cleaner air was on the agenda.

After speaking at the conference, Councillor Anna Richardson, City Convener for Sustainability and Carbon Reduction; headed to George Square to spend time with the school pupils and take in all the event had to offer. Councillor Richardson said:

"It's important to support health and wellbeing initiatives such as Clean Air Day and I'm delighted to say that the event in George Square has been a resounding success. Even the weather was on our side with the sun shining all day.

"It was fantastic to see the Square full of visitors enjoying the attractions and exhibits, and I'm delighted that the school pupils have also had a great time whilst learning about air quality.

"Events such as this are a great opportunity to find out more about air pollution, learn how to avoid it and discover the practical things that we can all do to cut local pollution.

"Reducing emissions is a top priority for Glasgow and I'm proud that our Low Emission Zone, the first in Scotland, will be in place by the end of the year to deliver cleaner air for the people of Glasgow."

Environmental Protection Scotland

Clean Air Day was coordinated by Environmental Protection Scotland (EPS), on behalf of the Scottish Government; working with UK organisers Global Action Plan.