CIEH backs calls for a new Clean Air Act as current legislation approaches its 70th anniversary

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has joined NHS doctors and leading health campaigners outside Parliament today to highlight the devastating impact of toxic air on the nation’s health and to call for urgent legislative reform.

Campaigners gathered in Parliament Square to raise awareness of the 82 individuals who die each day in the UK from conditions exacerbated by air pollution.

Representing the environmental health profession was CIEH member and Environmental Health Practitioner Richard Earis, as well as CIEH Policy Officer Jonathan Pickering, who stood alongside fellow members of the Healthy Air Coalition (HAC). Environmental health professionals play a vital role in protecting communities from the harmful effects of poor air quality and reducing exposure to air pollution.

Campaigners displayed a giant prescription calling on the Government to introduce a new Clean Air Act. The proposed legislation would include updated pollution targets aligned with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, as well as measures to address modern sources of air pollution and reduce levels of PM2.5 – tiny particles that penetrate deep into the lungs – which is a key priority supported by CIEH.

The demonstration coincided with a parliamentary debate on air pollution, secured by Brent West MP Barry Gardiner, and comes as the UK approaches the 70th anniversary of the original Clean Air Act.

It also follows the release of a new report this week by the Clean Air Fund, The Clean Air Dividend of Net Zero, which highlights how reducing emissions can lower public exposure to harmful pollutants while delivering significant health and economic benefits.

Ian Andrews, Head of Environmental Health at CIEH, said:

“We were proud to stand alongside our partners in Parliament Square today to highlight the urgent need for action on air pollution. With the UK approaching the 70th anniversary of the Clean Air Act, this moment is a powerful reminder that we must update our approach to reflect today’s challenges.

“Environmental Health Practitioners are on the frontline of tackling air pollution, working within communities to monitor air quality, enforce standards and protect public health. Their expertise is essential if we are to deliver meaningful and lasting improvements. We submitted evidence to the current Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) inquiry into air quality legislation in England and await the outcome of their discussions.

“A modern Clean Air Act must recognise and strengthen this role, alongside setting ambitious, evidence-based targets. Without the involvement of environmental health professionals, we simply cannot achieve the cleaner, healthier air that this campaign is calling for.”