Archived press release

FUMING MAD TEENAGERS CURB THE CAR: 30TH JUNE 1996

22 June 1996

As pollution levels soar in the warm weather young people from all over the country are linking up to Curb the Car on Sunday 30 June. The campaign, which is organised by Friends of the Earth, will involve lots of creative ways to draw attention to the connection between air pollution and the car, as well as encouraging people to leave the car at home for the day.

Fourteen year old Natalie Bouche from Middlesex is just one of many young people concerned about car pollution. An asthma sufferer herself,she has succesfully lobbied her MP, Sir Rhodes Boyson, to support the Road Traffic Reduction Bill. She is also collecting evidence of local traffic pollution problems to send to her council and is encouraging people to car share and use public transport.

Natalie says: "I think this campaign is a great idea as it allows young people to do something about improving the state of our environment - lots of young people really do care".

Bradford teenager Judith Ritchie is another active young campaigner.The sixteen year old has produced her own video on air pollution from cars which she intends to show to local councillors. Judith became actively involved when her sister was diagnosed asthmatic.

And in Newcastle, Curb the Car Day is being marked with cheap bus and underground tickets for the day. A flat rate fare of 20p per journey will be in operation throughout the day for bus and Metro trips.

Curb the Car Day is being backed by a number of celebrities including the cast of Byker Grove and Big Breakfast presenter Zoe Ball.

Luke Dale (Frew) and Kimberley Dunbar (Karen) from Byker Grove say:

"Excellent news this campaign! It's easy to notice all the disgusting smells and fumes from cars...and just think we're breathing that muck every day.It's so unhealthy. Save our country from becoming clogged up with traffic and don't drive when you can think of an alternative".

Zoe Ball: says

"I think we should try to cut pollution more and in fact I often give people lifts in my car. The ultimate way to save traffic fumes would be to cordon off areas in cities like London and only allow cycles or roller-blades. I think that would save a lot of pollution - you can tell I'm a roller-blade fan!"

More information about Curb the Car Day, celebrity photos and how to contact participants is available on request.

ENDS

If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.

Published by Friends of the Earth Trust