This Clean Air Day, we’re celebrating the importance of green spaces for healthier communities.
Earlier this month, HPP’s Environmental Committee organised an afternoon volunteering at the Phoenix Garden in Covent Garden. Together, we cut overgrown plants, cleared paths and helped compost organic waste.
Urban green spaces are more than just places to enjoy – they’re natural air filters. Trees and plants absorb pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter, helping to reduce the harmful effects of traffic and industrial emissions. According to the World Health Organization, green spaces can significantly reduce exposure to air toxins, noise and excess heat while also promoting physical activity and mental wellbeing.
Studies show that urban greenery can reduce air temperatures by up to 2°C, helping to mitigate the urban heat island effect. In the UK, it is estimated that access to green spaces saves the NHS more than £100 million annually by reducing the need for GP visits and prescriptions. Despite these advantages, nearly 10 million people in England still reside in areas where access to green spaces is limited.
Our volunteering afternoon was a reminder of how local action can support global goals. By maintaining and expanding these spaces, we’re creating habitats for wildlife, encouraging biodiversity and providing people a place to connect with nature.
This year’s Clean Air Day aims to bring together people, organisations and the healthcare sector to raise awareness about air pollution and its health effects, while promoting more sustainable choices in daily life. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we’re proud to support initiatives that have a positive impact on the environment and communities.
For more information on Clean Air Day, please visit www.actionforcleanair.org.uk/campaigns/clean-air-day
