Scientists at King’s Environmental Research Group use data from the London Air Quality Network, alongside projections from other leading forecasters, to deliver coordinated warnings and urgent alerts to the Mayor’s office. It is hoped that the alerts will encourage Londoners to make small changes that might reduce their exposure to toxic air.
The Mayor of London said, ‘I introduced air quality alerts within months of becoming Mayor. The system has proved to be very successful but I am delighted to bring the expertise of King’s College London on board so that we can reach more Londoners, particularly the most vulnerable, with the very latest information.’
King’s is one of the leading providers of air quality information and research in the UK. The Environmental Research Group combines air pollution science, toxicology and epidemiology to determine the impacts of air pollution on health.
This world-leading research is being used by London boroughs and local Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to combat air pollution. Westminster City Council used King’s pioneering research to create ‘air quality backpacks’ that monitor pedestrians’ exposure to harmful pollutants on Westminster’s streets. King’s scientists have worked with several central London BIDs to create low-pollution walking and cycling routes, with one between Embankment and Covent Garden reducing pollution exposure by 47 per cent.
King’s commitment to tackling air pollution in London makes a tangible difference to the wellbeing and health of Londoners, with many of the city’s air quality improvement measures informed by the university’s pioneering research.