Mayo County Council Encourages Schools To Join The Efforts Against Engine Idling For Clean Air Week 2024
Date: 07-11-2024
Mayo County Council, in collaboration with Green-Schools, is inviting all schools in County Mayo to participate in an exciting and impactful competition as part of annual An Taisce’s Clean Air Week, Clean Air Week 2024 | Green-Schools, running from the 25th to the 29th of November. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of engine idling and to encourage positive action for cleaner air and a healthier environment.
What is Engine idling?
Engine idling is any time your car engine is running but you’re not moving, usually for more than 10-20 seconds. e.g. waiting outside school, at a red light, roadworks, etc.
Why Stop Engine Idling?
Running a car without moving is wasteful and harmful, 10 seconds of idling uses more fuel and produces more emissions than restarting the engine. Here are some other key reasons to say no to engine idling:
- Environment: When engines idle, they emit carbon dioxide (CO₂), and other harmful greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. By switching off the engine when stopped, emissions are greatly reduced.
- Health: Air quality declines with engine idling, negatively affecting human health. Children, in particular, are more vulnerable to air pollution, as their lungs are still developing and they tend to breathe faster than adults, increasing their intake of pollutants.
- Money: Idling wastes fuel, which unnecessarily drains your pocket.
- Safety: Idling vehicles near schools make it difficult for students to hear approaching cars, increasing the risk of accidents.
Air Pollution Facts
- Global Crisis: The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 9 out of 10 people worldwide breathe air containing high levels of pollutants, contributing to millions of premature deaths annually.
- Health Consequences: Air pollution is linked to heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and respiratory conditions like asthma. Reducing exposure can lead to significant health improvements.
Call to Action for Schools
Schools are encouraged to run a No Idling Campaign using Green-Schools' No Idling Toolkit. This toolkit provides resources and guidance on how to effectively address the issue of engine idling. Green-Schools Travel No-Idling Toolkit for Schools | Green-Schools
Poster Design Competition
As part of the campaign, schools in County Mayo are invited to design a poster that urges drivers to turn off their engines. The poster must be an A4-sized portrait and should creatively convey the message of switching off engines to protect our environment and health.
Submission Details
- Email your scanned poster to climateaction@mayococo.ie with the subject line: No Idling Campaign Competition.
- Include the name of your school, the pupil’s name, class, and a contact person at the school.
- Deadline: All entries must be submitted by 3 pm on the 19th of November.
Prizes and Recognition
The winning schools will receive a €100 prize, and the winning posters design will be printed and distributed on the 27th of November. These posters will be shared with interested schools, community groups, and sports clubs throughout the county to address engine idling hotspots.
Winners will be announced on the 25th of November, marking a meaningful step toward cleaner air in County Mayo.
Join us in making a difference—turn off, breathe easy, and help create a healthier future for everyone!