Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/670243
7 Tackle inequality. Our most deprived communities are exposed to some of the worst outdoor and indoor air quality, contributing to the gap in life expectancy of nearly 10 years between the most and the least affluent communities. Regulators, local government and NHS organisations must prioritise improvements in air quality in our most deprived areas, setting high standards of emission control across all sectors of industry. 8 Protect those most at risk. Children, older people, and people with chronic health problems are among the most vulnerable to air pollution. Public services must take account of this disproportionate harm through local tools such as planning policies for housing and schools, equalities impact assessments, and joint strategic needs assessments. At an individual level, healthcare professionals should help vulnerable patients protect themselves from the worst effects of air pollution. 9 Lead by example in the NHS. The NHS is one of the largest employers in Europe, contributing 9.1% of the UK's gross domestic product (GDP). The health service must no longer be a major polluter; it must lead by example and set the benchmark for clean air and safe workplaces. In turn, this action will reduce the burden of air-pollution-related illness on the NHS. As pointed out in two earlier reports, 2,3 the Department of Health, NHS England and the devolved administrations must give commissioners and providers incentives to reduce their emissions, and protect their employees and patients from dangerous pollutants. 4 What can I do? As citizens and members of the public, everyone can help by: • trying alternatives to car travel or preferably taking the active option: bus, train, walking and cycling • aiming for energy efficiency in our homes • keeping gas appliances and solid fuel burners in good repair • asking their local council and MP to take action • learning more about air quality and staying informed. The collective effect of actions by a large number of individuals, together with action by local councils and governments, can make a significant difference to pollutant exposure. © Royal College of Physicians 2016 xv 1 www.rcplondon.ac.uk/projects/outputs/every-breath-we-take-lifelong-impact-air-pollution 2 www.nihr.ac.uk/policy-and-standards/nihr-carbon-reduction-guidelines.htm 3 www.sduhealth.org.uk/documents/Carbon_Footprint_summary_NHS_update_2013.pdf 4 Tomson C. Reducing the carbon footprint of hospital-based care. Future Hosp J 2015;2:57–62. Recommendations for action and research