Clean Air, Strong Starts is a programme designed to raise awareness among expectant parents and caregivers of children under five about the shared causes, impacts, and solutions to air pollution and climate change. It provides simple, practical tips that help families reduce exposure and improve health.

Engine idling near schools and busy hotspots adds harmful nitrogen dioxide and particulates to the air. Councils run monthly anti-idling events at school gates, crossings, and transport hubs, engaging drivers with health advice and fuel-saving tips. Supported by the Pan-London Idling Project, these campaigns aim to make idling socially unacceptable and reduce pollution where children and pedestrians are most exposed.

Wandsworth’s Clean Air Schools Accreditation (CASA) programme supports schools in reducing local air pollution and promoting active travel. Schools achieve Bronze, Silver, or Gold by completing actions such as anti-idling campaigns, School Streets, and sustainable travel initiatives. The scheme offers air quality assessments, guidance, and a menu of eligible activities, raising awareness among pupils and parents. Already St Boniface RC Primary has earned a Gold Award, as had St Mary’s RC Primary who are leading a School Superzone and air filters. CASA will soon expand to Merton, starting with schools most affected by pollution.

LB Richmond upon Thames plans to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to tackle persistent engine idling in high-risk areas such as school streets and transport hubs. The measure empowers officers to issue fines as a last resort, complementing behaviour-change campaigns and supporting Richmond’s commitment to reducing emissions and improving air quality across London.