As part of Clean Air Day* (Thursday 21 June), the North of England’s gas distributor Northern Gas Networks (NGN), has launched its new Environment Strategy in a bit to create a greener, cleaner future.

The strategy aims to ‘put environment at the heart of everything we do and work to enhance communities from a local to a global scale’ and has been underpinned by the gas distributor’s four business objectives that include delivering outstanding customer experience, guaranteeing value for money, looking after colleagues and creating lasting energy solutions.

This strategy looks to 2030 and beyond and presents an opportunity for the business to be proactive in deciding its environmental direction whilst ensuring that current and future environmental risks and opportunities are effectively recognised and addressed.

Mark Horsley, Chief Executive Officer for Northern Gas Networks, said: “In the UK poor air quality is estimated to contribute to the shortening of lives of around 40,000 people a year, often by undermining the health of people with heart and lung problems. It’s also a huge problem globally- and the primary aim of Clean Air Day is to raise awareness of this issue.

“At NGN we’re committed to reducing our environmental impact on the customers and communities that we serve, and where possible make a positive impact.

“This strategy demonstrates our commitment to this over the short, medium and long term through clear action areas, including: taking action against climate change, improving air quality, using resources responsibly, enhancing life on land and creating lasting energy solutions.”

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24-hours a day, seven days a week.