Essex councils are working together to tackle the largest environmental risk to public health.
Residents, businesses and organisations across Essex, Southend and Thurrock are encouraged to have their say on a new strategy to improve air quality.
Air pollution is the largest environmental risk to public health in the UK. In Essex, more than one in 20 deaths are estimated to be linked in some part to air pollution.
Air pollution reduces life expectancy by causing heart and lung diseases and is connected to other health impacts, such as dementia.
Councils in Essex, Southend and Thurrock have taken action to improve local air quality for a number of years, but have now come together to jointly develop the new strategy through the Essex Air Quality Consortium.
The consortium's draft Essex Air Quality Strategy sets out aims and a shared vision to improve air quality across the region.
The strategy outlines actions the Essex Air Quality Consortium plans to take to tackle air pollution and help improve people's health.
The strategy has been produced in partnership with all district, borough and city councils across Essex, as well as Essex County Council and the two unitary councils, Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council.
The Essex Air Quality Strategy is also supported by various public sector organisations, including local NHS trusts, Essex Police and the Essex Fire and Rescue Service.
The public are now being encouraged to share their feedback on the draft strategy as part of a public consultation open until sunday 2 March 2025. To take part visit the Essex Air website.
Cllr Lydia Hyde, cabinet member for, climate, environment and waste, said:"We have made significant strides in tackling air pollution over the years, but now, through being a partner of the Essex Air Quality Consortium, we have a unique opportunity to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses this vital issue.
"I urge all residents, businesses, and organisations in Southend to participate in the consultation on our shared Essex Air Quality Strategy, which recognises the cross-boundary nature of air pollution. Air pollution is the largest environmental risk to public health in the UK and by sharing your feedback, you can help shape a strategy by ensuring that our actions are effective and reflect the needs of Southend, with the aim to improve air quality and protect the health of our community."
Councillor John Spence, cabinet member for heath, social care and Integration at Essex County Council, said: "The air we breathe can have a significant effect on people's health, particularly children, older people and those with existing health conditions.
"Whether caused by road traffic, construction or even some of the everyday things we use in our own homes, air pollution can impact us all.
"Air pollution crosses boundaries, so it is vital we all work closely together as councils, and alongside other partners, to make best use of our collective resources and have maximum impact."