What can you do?
You can make a difference - to reduce your contribution to air pollution try some of the actions below:
Walk or Cycle
You could choose to walk or cycle, which won't create any pollution and also benefits your health. Walking or cycling is better than travelling by public transport, and much better than travelling by car.
South Tyneside is an excellent place to explore on bicycle.
We have dedicated cycle paths and lanes throughout the area, including along the coast.
- Tyne and Wear Cycle Map (south of the Borough, parts of Sunderland and Gateshead)
- Tyne and Wear Cycle Map (northern parts of the Borough, and north of the river)
Travel By Public Transport
It is more environmentally friendly if we use buses or trains whenever we can as this will reduce the number of cars on the road generating pollution. Every little bit makes a difference – we all have a role to play in reducing our contribution to air pollution.
South Tyneside is in a prime position for accessing the cities of Newcastle and Sunderland. A fantastic range of transport links are available, including a rail network, Metro system, regular buses and cross-river ferries to North Tyneside.
Public transport - South Tyneside Council
Travel by Car
If you do need to travel by car, consider car shares whenever possible, use a low emission vehicle such as an electric or hybrid car and avoid driving during congested peak traffic periods.
Save Electricity!
Don't leave your electronic devices such as TV's and computers on stand-by mode. Switch them off completely and you will save about 10% more electricity. Less electricity consumed means less power produced and fewer pollutants released into the air from burning of fossil fuels. It will also save you money in the long run.
Use Renewable Energy
Using renewable energy is a way of reducing emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases. Examples include solar power, wind turbines and hydroelectricity.
Heating systems can also be a major source of air pollution as the combustion of fuels results in emissions to air. To reduce these emissions from heating consider:
- Insulating your home, Better Housing Better Health
- Use electric heating powered by renewable energy, Green energy tariffs