IEMA Scotland West, World Environment Day Event

On World Environment Day 2019, the Scotland West Region welcomed a number of members along to a networking event in Glasgow. The topic of discussion was the ever growing problem surrounding air pollution and air quality in Scotland's heavily populated cities.

The event allowed for discussions surrounding local and national air pollution issues and how to overcome these, with thought provoking presentations from Derek McCreadie of Transport Scotland and Annie Danskin of ITPEnergised.

Derek's presentation highlighted areas within Glasgow city centre that are affected by air pollution, and how these effects are worsened during certain times of the year, particularly in highly populated areas. Derek advised on methods which can be implemented to combat these effects, including the implementation of the recent Glasgow Low Emission Zone. Following his presentation Derek said “It was great to see so many people being passionate about the environment and sharing ideas.“

Annie's presentation highlighted the importance of the planning system in reducing local air pollution impacts of proposed and existing developments. This highlighted the importance of engaging with experts early in the planning process to identify potential effects of proposals and to mitigate these where possible. The key message was to ensure early engagement and consultation is undertaken during the development process.

Following discussions surrounding air quality, attendees were given an inspiring presentation from Lizzie Ride and Lauren Doyle from Glasgow Over Plastic, a local youth-led initiative tackling the ongoing issue of plastic pollution in Glasgow. The aim of Glasgow Over Plastic is to inspire a plastic free revolution, through engaging educational resources and campaigns in partnership with local individuals, communities and businesses to make Glasgow the first plastic free city.

The event proved to be very popular, which highlights the importance of platforms such as World Environment Day to raise awareness and focus attention on pressing environmental concerns. Harry Becker, a Student IEMA member said: “the speakers were very interesting and gave me a good insight into air pollution and strategies to help reduce the issue. It was also good to see young people getting involved in combating litter pollution in Glasgow through the Glasgow Over Plastic volunteers.“

The Scotland West steering group is busy putting together a programme of events for the remainder of 2019, keep an eye out for updates over the coming weeks!

Susan Bell, Senior Environmental Planner, Stephenson HallidayIEMA Scotland West Steering Group Member