‘No Idling’ signs installed at Meath schools to cut air pollution
Young people in Trim may soon be breathing easier outside their schools, as a new initiative encourages parents to leave their cars at home and take part in ‘Car-Free Days.
Trim Climate Action and Trim Tidy Towns have installed ‘No Idling’ signs outside several schools to reduce the air pollution caused by drivers who leave their engines running while waiting to collect students.
Lill Coyne, a member of Trim Climate Action and the creator of the initiative said: “Exhaust emissions contain carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming. They also contain carbon monoxide and particulate matter, both of which are harmful to human health and contribute to respiratory problems.”
“It’s really a no-brainer to reduce these emissions whenever we can.”
The first signs were erected in the carpark at St Patrick’s Church on Patrick Street, an area heavily used by parents of St Michael’s and St Mary’s National Schools, and previously noted as one of the town’s most polluted by vehicle exhaust.
According to the local organisers, both schools quickly agreed to the initiative, resulting in four signs being installed to cover the large carpark. They now hope similar signage will soon be placed at all schools in Trim.
“It’s great to see the signs going up. We really hope this will improve air quality in these locations,” Ms Coyne said.
“An even better way to improve air quality is to leave the car at home. Research shows almost a third of car journeys are under 2km.”
“We hope schools will introduce ‘Car-Free Days’ to encourage parents and children to walk or cycle to school.
Ms Coyne added that they intend to talk to the Council about installing a network of cycle lanes so children can cycle safely - “It’s better for our health and the health of the planet.”
The signage was funded by Meath County Council’s Climate Action Department as part of the Council’s ‘Climate Action Month’, which runs from Friday, September 19 to Thursday, October 23.
The month-long initiative features a wide range of events, including energy information clinics, eco-friendly clothing swaps, toy libraries, green business networking, beach cleans, and cooking courses aimed at reducing food waste.