The group overseeing Scotland’s aim of having the cleanest air in Europe has been strengthened with specialists in health, environmental science and regulation.
British Heart Foundation Scotland (BHF) and Professor Campbell Gemmell, an expert in environmental science, policy and regulation, have joined The Cleaner Air for Scotland Governance Group which oversees delivery of Scotland’s strategy for cutting air pollution and reducing its impact on health.
The SNP Government has also set out further details of the financial support available for Low Emission Zones (LEZs).
Over 70% of the £10.8m funding in 2018/19 will support the bus industry to prepare for LEZs. This is enough to support the retrofitting of over 300 buses. Exhaust retrofitting ensures the buses meet the latest environmental standards.
Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham MSP said:
“I am delighted to welcome the British Heart Foundation Scotland and Professor Campbell Gemmell to the Cleaner Air for Scotland Governance Group.
“The SNP Government is committed to ensuring the group has access to a broad range of perspectives, including a focus on the health impacts of air pollution. Both the BHF and Professor Gemmell will provide valuable advice and support as we work together to fight air pollution, the damaging impact it has on our health and have the best air quality in Europe.”
James Cant, Director of the British Heart Foundation Scotland, added:
“British Heart Foundation Scotland supports the development of LEZs and therefore welcomed the publication of draft plans regarding an LEZ in Glasgow. BHF Scotland is committed to working with Scottish Government and Local Authorities to tackle poor air quality. Now it is time for all stakeholders to come together to implement workable and effective solutions.’’
Kenneth Gibson MSP commented:
“Clean air is in all our interests. Better air quality not only improves our health, it reduces the impact of particulates which damage flora and fauna, degrading the environment.
“The SNP Government’s aim of having the cleanest air in Europe is an ambitious one that we need to bring to fruition as soon as we possibly can.”
ENDS
