The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has launched a new campaign encouraging Londoners to turn off their engines when their vehicle is stationary for more than a minute. Delivered by the Transport for London (TFL), the campaign urges drivers of all vehicles to switch off their engines when they are parked or when picking up and dropping off people or goods, reducing the amount of unnecessary and harmful exhaust fumes emitted.

A study conducted shows that by doing so, CO2 emissions would be reduced by 100 million kg each year. The campaign also highlights the health benefits of reducing pollution levels and that includes preventing and alleviating illnesses such as asthma and heart and lung conditions. In addition, a research revealed that poor air quality contributes to around 4,300 premature deaths in London in a year and affects the quality of life.

Some motorists may be concerned that re-starting the engine repeatedly within a short time frame may be detrimental to the vehicle