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CYCLE OR WALK TO SCHOOL
CYCLE OR WALK TO SCHOOL CAMPAIGN
A generation ago, 70% of us walked to school. Now it’s less than half. That’s despite most people living within two miles of their closest primary school. As a result, one in four cars on the road during the morning peak are families on the school run, contributing to half a million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually – that’s more than the carbon footprint of some small countries.
Half a million tonnes of carbon dioxide in the uk can be attributed to the school run
One in four cars during the morning rush hours are school run cars
This is a vital change if the UK is to achieve net zero
SAY NO to excessively rush hours air polution
SAY YES to better mental and physical health and safer streets
Key information
Source: https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/why-walking-to-school-is-the-path-to-net-zero
Partner: https://www.livingstreets.org.uk
Local partners:
Rugeley Bicycle Repairs
Bicycles by Design
Sustainability in Colwich and the Haywoods
WHY CYCLING AND WALKING TO SCHOOL?
Motor vehicles are the biggest source of air pollution, harming children’s lungs and increasing the risk of asthma. Currently, over 2,000 primary schools in the UK are situated in pollution hotspots. Air pollution is bad for everyone but it’s particularly harmful for children who absorb and retain pollutants in their body for longer.
Reducing the number of cars outside school gates is vital if we’re to protect children’s health.
WHY DOES IT HELP?
Reduces local air pollution
Reduces cars at the school gates which harm children’s lungs and increases risk of asthma.
Contributes to better mental and physical health
People who walk to school arrive feeling more refreshed and alert - a great way to start the day
Safer streets and fewer car accidents
WHAT'S NEXT?
TAKE ACTION!
Start tomorrow switching your short car journeys to walking, wheeling or cycling and encourage your friends to do the same. Meet your friends and walk together.
Walking to school is one of the best ways to start the day. But getting to school on foot isn’t always as easy as it should be. Whether you’re exploring how walking to school can work for your family or want to campaign for better streets in your area, our Family Walk to School Kit is here to help.