Join us in supporting ‘Engine Off, Every Stop’

Engine idling damages your health and the health of those around you. Avoid idling whenever possible to reduce air pollution and protect everyone in our borough.

Engine idling significantly contributes to toxic air, harming our health but by simply switching off the engine of a parked vehicle, you make an immediate contribution to reducing exposure to unnecessary and harmful exhaust pollution. 

Idling vehicles emit pollutants including nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which are linked to asthma, heart disease, chronic bronchitis and cancer. People with respiratory conditions, the elderly, pregnant women, and children are particularly vulnerable. 

Together we can reduce pollution, to protect our and our community’s health.

You can also show your support by completing our online pledge not to idle.

Our key actions to tackle idling in the borough 

We have extended the Public Space Protection Order to curb engine idling, following strong resident support. 

We have installed anti-idling signage at key sites, including schools and level crossings, to reinforce the message of turning engines off when stationary to help reduce harmful emissions. 

To continue to grow community support, there are monthly Idling Action events, supported by volunteers and councillors and our School Streets restrict vehicles at drop-off and pick-up times, creating cleaner, safer environments. 

You can get more information about idling, what we are doing about it and how you can help on our website.

About ‘Engine Off, Every Stop’ 

Richmond Council is joining the London ‘Engine Off, Every Stop’ campaign, in partnership with the Mayor of London and 20 London councils, to tackle air pollution produced by engine idling.

Drivers across London are encouraged to switch off when pulled over, by educating them about the health impacts of air pollution and explaining why it is good to switch your engine off, are simple ways to instantly reduce vehicle emissions in London. 

Find out more about the London-wide campaign.