Volunteers needed for local Idling Action events

We are supporting the Idling Action London campaign, which is helping to reduce localised air pollution caused by motorists leaving their engines running when stationary.

Our Air Quality team is looking for residents to volunteer at both our next Idling Action event on Monday 24 March and others being scheduled throughout the year. 

Volunteers will support the team by approaching stationary vehicles in pairs and politely asking drivers to switch their engines 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. 

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

For more details and to volunteer for the 24 March 2025 event, please email gia.pendred@merton.gov.uk by Tuesday 18 March.

Please also email the team if you can't make the 24 March event but are interested in getting involved in other events.

London Idling Action campaign 

Motor vehicles are one of the main contributors to air pollution which is bad for the environment and is associated with a number of adverse health effects. 

Air pollution particularly affects the most vulnerable in society including children, the elderly, and those with heart and lung conditions. 

Avoid idling whenever possible to reduce air pollution and protect everyone in our borough. 

Find out more about the Idling Action London campaign.

Read more about what we are doing to tackle engine idling in Richmond upon Thames and how you can help.