Thursday 18 June is Clean Air Day, the UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Tackling air pollution is important, not only as it has a harmful impact on the environment, but also people’s health, particularly for children, older residents and those with existing health conditions. Addressing this is a priority for Portsmouth City Council through its Clean Air Strategy 2026–2040.
The strategy aims to ensure everyone in Portsmouth can breathe air that doesn’t damage their health and wellbeing, with a specific focus on preventing pollution, limiting exposure, and protecting the most vulnerable residents.
Cllr Kimberly Barrett, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Greening the City at Portsmouth City Council, said:
“Within our Clean Air Strategy, we are committed to building on strong work already happening across the Council, from transport and planning to environmental and energy programmes.
“Clean Air Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in improving air quality. We will need to work together with residents, businesses and partners to create a cleaner, healthier city. Small changes will collectively make a big difference.”
For Clean Air Day 2026, on Thursday 18 June, the Council is again collaborating with local bus companies to offer free bus travel, giving residents the chance to try the bus, and save money while helping reduce pollution.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said:
“We’re delivering a range of transport measures to improve air quality, including better bus services and initiatives like free bus travel – and we are seeing more people choosing to travel by bus as a result.
“We’re also supporting the shift to cleaner travel by investing in electric buses, electric car charging points and alternatives such as e‑bikes. While change takes time, we’re committed to helping residents make the transition towards more sustainable travel.”
Other progress locally includes organisations across the city signing a Portsmouth Clean Air Pledge, including the Council, local NHS trusts, Portsmouth Naval Base, Portsmouth International Port and HIVE Portsmouth.
There has also been continued investment in major initiatives such as Shore Power at Portsmouth International Port, allowing ferries and cruise ships to switch off engines while alongside and use cleaner electricity instead.
The Council’s Clean Air Strategy 2026-2040 is available online.
Find out more about free travel on Clean Air Day: portsmouth.gov.uk/freebus