Events are being held to help Aberdeen residents learn how they can contribute towards making the city’s air cleaner.
People will be able to learn about reducing pollution during National Clean Air day following reports that air quality in parts of the city is among the worst in Scotland.
Research by Friends of the Earth Scotland showed that the air on Market Street and Wellington Road contains significantly high levels of pollutants that can cause harm to the body when inhaled.
Aberdeen City Council, First Bus, the NHS, air quality specialists Ricardos and various other groups will operate stalls in the pedestrian area outside Marks and Spencer in the city centre from 10am to 4pm on Thursday in an effort to tackle the problem.
First Bus will give away free day passes as part of a national campaign, NHS representatives will educate members of the public on how to travel more healthily and there will be three electric and hydrogen vehicles on show.
Council officers will explain how air quality is determined within the city, and what measures can be taken to improve it – with anyone pledging to do so being given a free spider plant.
The second event, named Evolution Motor Show, is being held on Queen Street beside Marischal College next Saturday.
Broad Street will host the largest display of electric vehicles the city has ever had from 10am to 4.30pm that day and people will be given a chance to try them out.
Vice-convener of the council’s operational delivery committee, Philip Bell, said: “We are actively encouraging people to walk, cycle, or use buses more as they’re good for your health and good for the city as it means cleaner air.
“We’re also supporting electric and hydrogen vehicles through a network of public charging points, and two hydrogen refuelling stations.”
