A total of 16 councils in England have received part of a total £2.2m government funding package to help projects encouraging active and cleaner transport and tackling emissions.

Council schemes include work to encourage take-up of electric taxis through behaviour and awareness campaigns

It’s the latest round of funding from the Government’s Air Quality Grant, which supports schemes that help councils develop and implement measures to benefit schools, businesses and residents, reducing the impact on people’s health and creating cleaner and healthier environments.

First launched in 1997, the Air Quality Grant has now provided more than £64m to projects and campaigns. The latest projects include work to reduce harmful emissions outside schools and encourage the take-up of electric taxis, as well as work to encourage active travel.

Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said: “While air pollution has reduced significantly in recent decades, we know the impact that it continues to have on communities in the UK. That is why the government is committed to not only improving air quality on a national level, but also helping local authorities take action in their own areas.”