Published on:
11
June 2007
Clackmannanshire has some of the best air quality in the country. And a new event - Clean Air Day - which will target vehicle exhaust emissions, will help to keep it that way.
The advice and information day has been organised as part of the Clackmannanshire Environment Festival and will take place during Green Transport Week and Bike Week on Tuesday 19th June.
Drivers will be able of have their vehicle's emissions tested for free, using equipment borrowed from West Lothian Council. Copies of Clackmannanshire Council's Sustainable Car Use booklet will be handed out, which provides tips on how to save money and reduce pollution when driving.
Staff from local garage SMS will also be taking part, offering free advice on basic car maintenance, such as checking your tyre pressure, which can also help you save money and cut down pollution.
Sustainability portfolio holder Councillor Eddie Carrick said: "There is no doubt that vehicle emissions are harmful to the environment, but this event is not about penalising drivers. Our aim is to give feedback to people who's vehicle exhaust emissions do not meet the required standard and to provide tips on how you can help to prevent the deterioration of air quality by keeping your vehicle well maintained."
Clean Air Day takes place at Alloa's Candleriggs car park on Tuesday 19th June from 10am - 4pm.
Carbon dioxide, although not directly harmful to human health, is the most significant of the greenhouse gases contributing to climate change. The 2001 census indicated that over 70% of households in Clackmannanshire own a car. Each car produces approximately its own weight of CO2 for every 6000 miles travelled. An inefficient or poorly serviced vehicle creates even more. It is hoped that the Clean Air Day will help both the environment and local car owners by cutting fuel usage.
Principal Transportation Planner Lesley Deans added: "The aim of this event is to show members of the public how to reduce their carbon footprint without having to make huge sacrifices. We are not trying to make people sell their car and buy a bike. This is about making simple changes that are easy and cheap to do, which could have big environmental benefits and save you money too.
"The emissions testing can be carried out on any car. However, any drivers with a diesel car that has not had its timing belt renewed within the appropriate timescale should avoid the testing as it could cause the belt to snap."
Council staff will be available to offer advice and information throughout the day. School Travel Co-ordinator Carlyn Fraser can advise on reducing short trips, particularly relating to travel relating to children. She will demonstrate how much CO2 a car emits on a short journey using balloons. Members of the Council's Sustainability team will provide information on their work and how to sign up to car sharing scheme Tripshare Clacks. And waste education officer Jackie Reid will discuss the benefits of recycling and home composting.