DRIVERS are being encouraged to leave their cars at home today (Sunday) as part of a worldwide event.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is calling for people across the area to take part in Car Free Day in a bid to tackle air pollution and carbon emissions caused by motor vehicles.

The council has said: “Vehicles are the main source of air pollution, so just cutting back on a few miles a week could add up to make a big difference.

“By taking public transport to work just one day a week you can reduce your pollution contribution by 20 per cent”

People are urged to think about alternative ways of getting around, from walking to cycling and bus travel.

It comes after the authority declared a climate emergency, with work starting to help enhance the environment and reduce the impact of its buildings and services on the planet.

Speaking at cabinet meeting earlier this month, member for environment and enforcement at the borough council, Councillor Hayley Eachus said: “We are blessed with a beautiful green borough, but we cannot be complacent. As a council we have collectively chosen to declare a climate emergency, and this means things need to change to minimise our impact on the environment.”