Let’s Clear the Air

Extinction Rebellion Winchester invites residents to “Let’s Clear the Air” on Clean Air Night – Thursday 22 January

Winchester residents are invited to join a free community event that will shine a light on the hidden dangers of air pollution and explore practical solutions for cleaner air and healthier streets.

Let’s Clear the Air aims to spark lively, informed conversation about the air we breathe and the future of active travel (walking & cycling) in Winchester.

Air pollution has a devastating impact on public health and the environment, yet it often goes unnoticed. In the UK, dirty air is linked to at least 40,000 premature deaths every year. It contributes to heart and lung disease, worsens asthma, and increases the risk of diabetes. New research now shows that air pollution can damage the brain, raising the risk of dementia and mental health problems.

Clean Air Night is a national campaign highlighting the impact of domestic wood burning, a major but underestimated source of air pollution. Wood smoke releases fine particulate matter (PM2.5), tiny particles that are inhaled deep into the lungs and pass into the bloodstream. These particles are linked to heart disease, lung disease, diabetes and dementia. Research shows that even homes using newer “eco-design” wood burners can have three times higher indoor pollution levels than homes without them. Wood burning doesn’t just affect individual households – it pollutes neighbourhood air and harms the whole community.

Traffic is another major contributor to poor air quality in towns and cities. Exhaust fumes damage respiratory health, while brake and tyre wear release harmful particles into the air we all breathe. Active travel – walking, wheeling and cycling – offers one of the most effective ways to cut pollution, improve health and make our streets safer and more pleasant for everyone.  The solutions to air pollution are also solutions to the climate crisis.

As the first event in a new series of climate-focused talks, Let’s Clear the Air brings together two passionate speakers:

Hazel Agombar – Local air-quality campaigner and Mums for Lungs volunteer
Air pollution: its impacts and how to breathe cleaner air

Ben Marsh – Rights of Way & Access Officer, South Downs National Park Authority
The realities of delivering active travel and access improvements in the South Downs National Park

The evening will offer a relaxed, welcoming space for anyone concerned about air quality, curious about climate issues, or interested in positive local action.

Venue: South Downs Social Café, 3–4 Kings Walk, Middle Brook Street, Winchester, SO23 8AF
Date: Thursday 22 January
Time: 7–9pm (doors open and refreshments available from 6pm)
Tickets: Free – booking essential, just search for Let's Clean The Air Winchester.