South West MEP Julie Girling today hosted the European Commissioner for the Environment, Commissioner Karmenu Vella at a meeting in Bath to discuss air quality, an important issue locally to Bath and other areas of the South West.
The round table event, sought to bring together local resident and community groups alongside council planners and representatives of the business community.
Following the event, Mrs Girling said; “Bath is a notorious air pollution hotspot, I have been working for some time with local residents and councillors on this issue. Up to 80% of nitrogen dioxide at roadside locations in Bath is from road traffic; this is an unhealthy emission level. I have invited Commissioner Vella here today to hear directly about the issues within the local context to ensure future European air quality planning allows effectively for local challenges.
I am responsible for revising old and leading new air quality legislation through the European Parliament. It is vital for local representatives to have direct contact to the Commission as they will finalise air quality legislation.”
Commissioner Vella commented; “Air pollution leads to annual health costs of roughly £15 billion to UK citizens and roughly £16 billion to the UK economy. Across Europe, 400,000 people die each year because of poor air quality. This is an issue which requires action and today I was delighted to visit Bath, meet with local representatives and listen to local ideas and solutions. The air we breathe is of vital importance and meetings like this should never be underestimated. The meeting generated lots of discussion and there are a number of issues that I will take back to my team in the Commission for further consideration.”
Ben Howlett MP commented: “I’m delighted that the Commissioner has come to visit Bath to discuss the high air pollution levels which are well above the EU recommended levels. It is a huge concern for residents and also a health risk due to the strong links between nitrogen oxide and respiratory diseases. I would like to thank Julie Girling MEP for facilitating this meeting, we have worked closely together on this issue both on a National and European level and it’s important we keep up the pressure to help obtain funds to get solutions implemented quickly.”
Local air quality campaigner and Chairman of the Circus Area Residents’ Association Sally Rothwell said; “The meeting provided an excellent opportunity for the local community to have their voices heard at the highest level. The discussions were extremely worthwhile and I am delighted Julie was able to facilitate the meeting.”
