Explore Portsmouth for Free on Clean Air Day

On June 20, Portsmouth City Council is offering free bus travel within the city's boundaries in collaboration with local bus companies First Solent and Stagecoach. This initiative is part of the council’s efforts to promote sustainable transport and improve air quality, coinciding with Clean Air Day.

Clean Air Day is the UK's largest air pollution campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the health impacts of vehicle emissions and encouraging people to make changes to reduce pollution. Portsmouth residents and visitors can take advantage of free bus travel to explore the city’s attractions, commute to work, or run errands, contributing to cleaner air and reduced traffic congestion.

A fully loaded double-decker bus can replace up to 75 cars on the road, making a significant difference in reducing emissions. If everyone in the UK switched just one car journey per month to a bus ride, it would result in a reduction of one billion car journeys annually, saving two million tonnes of CO2.

This initiative is part of Better Transport Week 2024, which runs from June 17 to 23, promoting sustainable transport options. Portsmouth City Council hopes that offering free bus travel will encourage more people to consider public transport as a regular part of their routine, supporting long-term improvements in air quality.

Natalie Brahma-Pearl, Chief Executive of Portsmouth City Council, highlighted the council's commitment to improving air quality throughout the year. She urged residents to take advantage of the free bus service on Clean Air Day to experience how convenient and beneficial public transport can be.

Simon Goff, Managing Director of First Solent, expressed support for the initiative, noting that the introduction of new electric buses in Portsmouth is part of their effort to improve air quality. Marc Reddy, Managing Director of Stagecoach South, also encouraged car users to try the bus service, emphasizing its convenience and environmental benefits.