Tomorrow my territory 16 Breathing clean air in my territory

Air quality

November 2019

Agence pour l’Environnement et la Maîtrise de l’Energie (ADEME)

The 20 factsheets in the collection « demain MON TERRITOIRE » have been designed to give candidates and elected officials practical keys to take action, to open up the field of possibilities based on the experiences of other elected officials, from small towns to conurbations, large urban areas or sparsely populated areas. In the four corners of France, both in metropolitan France and in the French Overseas Territories, many of them are taking action, together with the players in their territories, to prepare for the future by taking action to mitigate climate change and adapt to its effects. With its knowledge and presence throughout the country, ADEME supports them with its tools, activities and financial aid.

Why is it important to improve air quality?

Air pollution is not only a problem in cities congested by road traffic. Small and medium-sized towns, as well as rural areas, are affected, as the sources are so diverse: transport, industry, agriculture, heating, waste burning, etc. This pollution is classified as a proven carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. It causes cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, fertility and child development disorders. Not to mention its multiple consequences on the environment. Indoor air quality is just as worrisome due to sources as diverse as tobacco smoke, construction and decorative materials, furniture, home fragrances, DIY and cleaning products.

How do you do it?

Sources