We need cleaner air

Air pollution is the biggest environmental killer in the UK, so it’s vital for us to take steps to make the air we breathe cleaner for everyone.

wave graphic

Whether you’ve come here from following a QR code, or whether you’re curious about our anti engine-idling campaign, you can find out what we can all do to fight air pollution.

To check if your vehicle may be charged in the Clean Air Zone, click here. For the Portsmouth CAZ, non-compliant vehicles are older Heavy Goods Vehicles (including some larger motorhomes), buses and coaches, taxis and private hire vehicles. Private cars and vans are not charged in Portsmouth’s CAZ.

When you stop, engine stops.

In December 2022, we launched a campaign to educate drivers on the damage caused by engine idling.

Engine idling has a huge impact on air quality, and poor air quality leads to significant health issues. Thousands of Portsmouth residents are experiencing these issues daily. We’re asking drivers to consider whether they could make their journey by public or active transport, and if not, to drive responsibly and not idle.

Read more.

A girl standing on a beach, looking out to sea and holding a bunch of balloons

Clean Air Zone (CAZ)

Some areas of Portsmouth have levels of pollutants, like nitrogen dioxide, that are likely to remain above safe legal limits unless we take strong action quickly.

The city is densely populated and while many of us need to own a vehicle, they cause congestion and contribute to over 50% of air pollution.

One way in which we’re tackling air pollution and climate change in the city is the charging Clean Air Zone (CAZ). Watch this short video to find out more.

View our privacy notice 

Latest News

Government mandated Clean Air Zone continues as air quality challenges persist

November 30, 2023

Government mandated Clean Air Zone continues as air quality challenges persist

Council urges Government investment to propel transformation in travel and ensure cleaner…

Workplace sustainable travel fund now open

October 30, 2023

Workplace sustainable travel fund now open

Businesses and organisations in Portsmouth are invited to apply for up to…

Drivers warned over Clean Air Zone scam website

September 1, 2023

Drivers warned over Clean Air Zone scam website

When you stop, engine stops – new anti-engine idling campaign launches

December 13, 2022

When you stop, engine stops – new anti-engine idling campaign launches