A group of health professionals has urged Keir Starmer to do more to reduce air pollution, and their call has been backed by Rosamund Kissi-Debrah, whose daughter Ella’s death was linked to it. Nine-year-old Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, who died in 2013, was the first person to have air pollution cited as a cause of death. Keep up to date with the latest stories with our WalesOnline newsletter.
A mother, whose young daughter’s death was linked to air pollution, has implored the Prime Minister to act regarding wood-burning stoves. Ella Kissi-Debrah, aged nine, was the first in the UK to have air pollution recognised as a factor in her death in a 2021 coroner’s report. Over 100 senior doctors have issued a warning about the adverse health impacts of wood-burning stoves and urged Sir Keir Starmer to take action.
The group of health professionals called attention to Ella’s tragic death, labelling it a “wake-up call†regarding the health damage from air pollution. They highlighted air pollution as an “invisible killer†causing 38,000 premature deaths annually. The health experts urged for education on the health risks of wood burners and emphasised the need for reducing air pollution.
Wood-burning stoves account for a significant portion of the UK’s particulate pollution, surpassing emissions from cars. The health professionals proposed actions targeting solid fuel burning in homes as a cost-effective way to improve air quality. Installing wood burners has led to increased levels of harmful pollutants in urban areas, necessitating urgent measures.
The environment secretary has committed to achieving the targets of the Environment Act by 2040, including reducing PM2.5 pollution. The government has assured to deliver a comprehensive clean air strategy to meet legally binding air quality targets. The efforts to address air pollution are seen as crucial for safeguarding public health and improving overall environmental well-being.