There are lots of things that we can do to help reduce air pollution. We need energy to grow our food, clean our drinking water, make the things we use every day, and travel to all the places we need to go. Most of this energy comes from burning fuels, such as gas, oil and coal. That produces carbon dioxide (which is involved in climate change) and usually some air pollution (such as nitrogen dioxide).
Therefore, if we can use less energy, and avoid wasting it, we can help reduce air pollution and climate change. Here are a few ideas:
Use buses and trains
We can all help to reduce pollution by using our cars a lot less! It is better for the environment if we use buses or trains whenever we can.
Walk or cycle
Walking or cycling is even better than using the bus as they don't create any pollution at all. And they're good for your health. You could walk or cycle to school with friends, or maybe think about stating a walking bus to school.
Turn lights off
Have you ever been told to turn a light off? Well, it makes sense! Not only does it save money, but it means that less energy needs to be produced in our power stations - and that helps to reduce pollution.
Use renewable energy
Using 'renewable' energy is a way of reducing emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases. Examples include solar power, wind turbines and hydroelectricity.
Reduce heating
Stay warm at home, but before turning the heating up, try putting on a jumper. 21o Celsius is comfortable for most people.
Reduce waste
Try not to waste the things we use every day, like paper. Think before you print things out from the computer!