Southampton was identified by DEFRA as one of five cities in England outside of London predicted to contravene EU limits on nitrogen dioxide (NO2). In 2018, Southampton City Council undertook a 12 week consultation exercise to explore the option of introducing a Clean Air Zone.
An unprecedented response not only informed a plan to deliver compliance for NO2 levels within the city, but also demonstrated that residents and other stakeholders felt that not enough was being done to address climate issues locally and nationally.
In response to this, Southampton City Council introduced ambitious measures to create a cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable city through a Green City Charter. Providing a leadership framework, not only for the council to lead the way but also to help marshal companies, communities and residents to achieve carbon neutrality.
Through the Charter, Southampton will be a better place for present and future generations that is prepared for the challenges presented by climate change. The council will achieve this by ensuring we are ambitious, leading by example and by setting challenging goals.
The Charter launch was attended by representatives form organisations and community groups from across the city who are key to supporting our efforts to improve air quality and live more sustainably. This was supported by a range of activities to support Clean Air Day and showcase what is being done across the city to improve air quality and encourage more sustainable travel in and around the city.
Southampton City Council is now working on its own action plan and with the founding signatories of the Charter to review current activity, encouraging each organisation to align with the Charter.
