The Government is being challenged by Client Earth in the Supreme Court tomorrow (Thursday 7th March) over its failure to meet European laws on nitrogen pollution. The challenge revolves around the UK’s failure to develop plans for 16 zones in the country to meet legal nitrogen dioxide pollution limits by 2015.
 
Commenting ahead of the case, Friends of the Earth London Campaigner Jenny Bates said:
 
“It’s a disgrace the UK is failing so badly on air pollution – tens of thousands of people die every year across the country because of poor air quality.
 
"Action by the Government and Mayor for London to clean up our dirty air is too little too late – and road-building plans, such as those proposed for the capital, will simply make the situation worse.
 
“It’s time to end this national scandal.”
 
ENDS
 
Notes to editors:
 
1. The case starts 10.30 Thursday 7th March at the Supreme Court in Parliament Square, London:
2. Further information from Client Earth on their case:
3. Friends of the Earth is a partner in the Healthy Air Campaign, which is led by Client Earth:
4. Friends of the Earth signed up to a joint letter of 60 NGOs (dated 4th March) urging the EU to take a strong line in its air quality "Year of Air" review as consultation closed:
5. Kings College London studied the varying levels of personal exposure different street users have, such as those in a vehicle versus those cycling and walking:
6. The Mayor's environment advisor recently said children may need to be kept indoors and out of playgrounds at times of bad air pollution: 8. 7. For more than 40 years we’ve seen that the wellbeing of people and planet go hand in hand – and it’s been the inspiration for our campaigns. Together with thousands of people like you we’ve secured safer food and water, defended wildlife and natural habitats, championed the move to clean energy and acted to keep our climate stable. Be a Friend of the Earth – see things differently. For further information visit www.foe.co.uk