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Barnet schools star in TfL awards

Author: Brendan Steinhardt

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Schools in Barnet are leading the way in reducing traffic on roads which is having a positive impact on air quality throughout the borough.

More than 100 schools in Barnet were recently given STARS (Sustainable Travel; Active, Responsible, Safe) accreditation by Transport for London (TfL) for successfully implementing initiatives that aim to reduce car use while commuting to school.

In total, 105 schools were awarded STARS accreditation this year with 23 receiving bronze, 19 silver and 63 gold. This is the highest number of STARS awarded to Barnet schools, since the beginning of the accreditation scheme in 2007.

The bronze, silver and gold levels are awarded to schools based on how many travel activities they have completed and how successful they have been in reducing car use to increase sustainable travel.

To help schools achieve these targets, officers from the Safe and Sustainable Travel Team, delivered by Re, have encouraged walking, cycling and public transport use, where possible, to avoid using cars on the school run, whilst improving their road and personal safety.

The work by the schools coincides with the council’s Taking Care of our Neighbourhoods campaign, which informs residents about simple things they can do to improve air quality in the borough.

Councillor Dean Cohen, Chairman of the Environment Committee, said: “Congratulations to everyone who was involved in making this happen. This is a great achievement from our schools and one which shows our borough is committed to reducing air pollution, having also been awarded Cleaner Air Borough status by the Mayor of London.

“It’s positive seeing our schools leading by example and I encourage all residents to look at ways you can also help improve air quality in Barnet.”

For more information on how you can help keep neighbourhoods clean and green click here.