We can all take steps in our daily activities to help improve air quality.

How we travel

Think about your journey - do you have to go by car? Or could you use another, more environmentally friendly method?

Walking

Walking is free, it doesn't need any special equipment, and has many health benefits, both physical and mental.

It's perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels, and can easily be built into your daily routine. You can walk on your own, with family or friends, or join in one of the group walks organised by Paths for All or Get Walking Lanarkshire. 

Cycling

Cycling also has many health benefits and can save you money on fuel or public transport. More information on cycling can be found on the Cycling Scotland website. National cycle routes, some of which pass through North Lanarkshire are also available from Sustrans. You could also try an electric bike or e-bike.

Public transport

Using public transport takes away the stress and strain of driving and parking. It can also work out cheaper and gives you extra time in your day to read, listen to music or catch up with friends.

Traveline Scotland can be used to plan your journey.

If you do have to travel by car 

• Consider visiting the Lift Share website to see if you can find a buddy to travel with and share the cost of your commute.
• Try to travel outwith peak times where possible. Although we often can't avoid travelling for work or school at busy times other journeys such as visiting friends or shopping could be done at quieter times of the day. Less congestion means faster journeys, which in turn creates less pollution.
• Avoid leaving your engine idling when not in use. 
• Service your car regularly, keeping the engine properly tuned and the tyres at the correct pressure so the engine is as efficient as possible.
• Think about buying an electric or hybrid vehicle. They typically have lower running costs and there are sometimes financial incentives available to buy them. There is also information online about charging points for electric vehicles.

Travelling to school

To get to school on time we often can't choose when we travel, but sometimes we can choose how we travel which can help keep our air clean. You could take part in Walk to School Week or the Walk once a week (WOW) project. Your school might already have a School Travel Plan, which looks at more sustainable (environmentally friendly) ways of getting to school, including walking, cycling or scooting. 

How we live

Reducing the amount of energy we use in our homes can reduce our impact on the environment. Here are some suggestions:

• Make sure you only use approved appliances and burn authorised fuels if you have a woodburning stove or open fire. You should also check if your house is within a Smoke Control Area.
• Be more energy efficient in the home. Advice on how to improve energy efficiency in your home, including grants that may be available to you can be found by contacting Home Energy Scotland.
• Recycle as much of the waste from your home as much as you can. 
• Use environmentally friendly safe paints and cleaning products whenever possible.