Volunteers needed for idling action event in Barnes

Would you like to help reduce air pollution in our borough? Join our Air Quality team on Tuesday 13 June to support the cause. 

A large proportion of air pollution in London stems from traffic, and idling vehicle engines are often the source of pollutants, which affects the health of everybody. Particularly younger and older people, as well as those with health conditions such as asthma, lung or heart disease. You can find more information on the Engine idling page.

To help tackle this, our Air Quality team runs regular idling action events and are looking for resident volunteers to join. 

Volunteers will support the Air Quality team by approaching stationary vehicles at the chosen location in pairs, and politely asking drivers to switch their vehicles off. The aim is to explain that we are doing this to reduce the localised air pollution created by traffic to help protect the health of residents.

Conversations often involve myth busting about idling and many drivers are surprised to learn that the air pollution inside their vehicle is probably much higher than outside – especially if they and other cars are idling. 

Volunteers will be provided with everything they need for the event, including a training video and volunteer pack detailing all about idling and its impact. 

To find out more information about specific timings and sign up, please email gia.pendred@merton.gov.uk by Sunday 11 June.