Pollution Patrol: free online resource to help tackle air pollution

Air pollution is a problem that can affect everyone, with children being particularly at risk as their bodies are still developing. Government statistics estimate that air pollution in the UK reduces life expectancy by 7 to 8 months on average and comes with an associated cost of up to £20 billion each year.

Ahead of Clean Air Day on Thursday 16 June, all schools in Kent and Medway are being contacted about Pollution Patrol; a free digital resource developed for primary schools to educate children on air pollution and the impact on our health. It also encourages children and the wider community to take steps to improve local air quality. Councils across Kent and Medway received funding from DEFRA’s Air Quality Grants to produce Pollution Patrol for primary schools and families.

Immersive resource to reduce air pollution around schools

Pollution Patrol, is an interactive story where children can adventure through the fictional town of Sooting; and play games that educate and inform about air pollution. The Pollution Patrol provides practical and curriculum-linked solutions for in-school lessons, and fun at-home learning for children and their parents to reduce their impact on air pollution, whilst travelling to school and around the wider community.

Air pollution in Kent and Medway with the Pollution Patrol

Air pollution comes from many sources with some of the most significant being traffic, factories, domestic use of fuels for heating, and farming activities. Though the air quality in Kent and Medway is generally better than at any time since before the Industrial Revolution, it can still affect everyone’s health.

While legislation and policies aim to minimise the impact of air pollution on health and the environment, the wider community in Kent and Medway are encouraged to take their own steps in improving local air quality.

Access Pollution Patrol resources for your school and find out more at the  Pollution Patrol website