London schools ditch the car to improve the capital’s air

Over 100 schools from 18 London boroughs will be marking World Car Free Day today, 22 September, by encouraging parents and carers to substitute their car journeys to school with walking or cycling.

This is part of TfL's sustainable travel to school programme, STARS, to improve air quality in the Capital.

A number of schools across London have set up 'car-free zones' near their school gates, while others have 'park and stride' spots where parents park a distance from the school gate and walk the rest of the way.

There will also be 'walking buses' where children join an organised walk to school, picking up 'passengers' on the way as they learn about looking after the environment.

The event follows concerns around the increase in air pollution and congestion on London's roads.

The school run is a major source of traffic and air pollution with school journeys accounting for half the traffic in London between 8:00 and 9:00am am during school terms.

Will Norman, walking and cycling commissioner, said:"'Walking and cycling to school is a great way to get active and tackle London's toxic air crisis.

"On this World Car Free Day, and beyond, I would encourage as many Londoners as possible to give up four wheels in favour of going by foot or by bike."