The campaign will see businesses participate in pollution-tackling seminars whilst drivers will be asked to switch their engines off when their cars are parked or stationary for a long period of time. Schools and parents will also be targeted in a move to encourage people to walk or cycle the school run.

Boris Johnson said: ‘This is about promoting small simple steps we can all make to help improve air quality, protect ourselves from pollutants and indeed breathe better together. Today’s campaign is part of a series of strong measures I’m delivering to tackle air quality and safe guard the health and well-being of Londoners, but I’m fully aware much more needs to done. I’m confident the Ultra-Low Emission Zone and the strict tightening of our emission standards will help dramatically improve air quality and lower NO2 across the city.’

The initiative comes as legal pressure for UK cities to reduce levels of nitrogen dioxide increases following the case won in the European Court of Justice (ECJ) by environmental group Client Earth.

The campaign will also work closely with airTEXT, London’s air pollution alerts provider which send a free information text service informing people of pollution levels.