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The mayor said schools in contaminated areas will install air filters in all classrooms this year.
Sadiq Khan said air filters would be installed in London’s most polluted schools as part of the pilot scheme.
The Mayor of London said PM2.5 filters will be installed in 200 schools later this year.
If deemed successful, filters could be installed in every classroom in London, City Hall said.
“We want all children to be able to breathe clean air in and around their schools,” Khan said.
He added: “During critical early years, differences in young people’s health and well-being can be life-changing.”
The pilot is expected to cost £2.7 million and will form part of the Mayor’s 2024/25 budget, which will be voted on by London assemblies on Thursday.
City Hall said the money will go towards filters and their maintenance, working with schools, educational materials and monitoring the program’s impact.
National Education Union general secretary Daniel Kebede said the pilot would be of “huge benefit to pupils and staff in London schools”.
He called for the plan to have “much wider national coverage”.
Andrea Carnevelli, founder of Chiswick Oasis, said: “In June 2019, we had the pleasure of having Sadiq Khan tour St Mary’s Catholic School in Chiswick and explore the new installation. “We introduced the amazing effects of air purifiers on air purifiers and succeeded in reducing pollution.” Levels are reduced by approximately 94%.
“It is an immense joy for us as parents to see how 200 schools are following in our footsteps and ensuring our children breathe clean air, and a new vision for our future.” It fills me with a sense of optimism.”
City Hall said the schools chosen for the pilot would be spread across London and would be chosen based on pollution levels, as well as schools in more deprived areas.
