Comment: The cost of not transitioning to Net Zero would be "astronomical" for the UK

"Air pollution is a public health crisis we can’t keep ignoring. It fuels asthma, heart disease, and strokes—piling pressure on the NHS and cutting lives short. The fastest way to fix this is by slashing emissions from transport, energy, and industry. Net Zero isn’t just good for the climate; it’s a necessity for our health. 

"Clean air means fewer hospital visits, work absences, healthier children, and longer lives. Investing in green spaces, better public transport, and safer walking and cycling routes will make our cities healthier, more liveable, and more productive.   

"This isn’t just about health –it’s about the economy too. The cost of not acting is astronomical, far outweighing the price of transitioning to Net Zero. Delaying action means higher healthcare costs, lost productivity, and an economy weighed down by environmental damage. We either invest now or pay far more later."