A NEW exhibition has opened to promote the use of cleaner vehicles, as the county attempts to tackle its clean air issue.

Making a home at Winchester Science Centre, the Air Quality Exhibit aims to demonstrate how dirty air impacts on the health of the county’s residents.

It features a set of lungs which respond when visitors turn various dials to answer questions. The aim is to demonstrate how air quality impacts on health and the individual measures that can be taken to improve levels of air pollution.

The installation was commissioned as part of the Government’s Access Fund for Hampshire County Council and Southampton City Council.

It will be a permanent addition in the centre.

The display, designed and created by model maker Clive Ramble, was launched by councillor Rob Humby, the county’s environment chief, and city councillor Eamonn Keogh.

The launch was attended by pupils and teachers from Harefield Primary School and Bursledon Junior School, who have been working hard to encourage people to walk and cycle on the school run.

Cllr Humby said: “Leaving the car at home when we can, and travelling under our own steam, not only improves health and fitness but also helps reduce congestion and improve air quality.

“It’s great to see young people encouraging others in their own communities to walk and cycle on the school run, and I hope the children from Harefield Primary and Bursledon Junior enjoy their visit to the Science Centre today to see the new exhibit and the difference they are making in improving air quality.”

The exhibit opened as both the county council and city council look to tackle the air quality crisis.

While county chiefs have embarked on a plan to cut carbon emissions by installing LED lighting, and switching to electric vehicles, city leaders are consulting over proposals to impose a clean air zone in Southampton.

Cllr Keogh, Peartree Ward member, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many pupils from Hampshire here at the launch of the new air quality exhibit.

“I’m delighted with the display and look forward to spreading the important message about the benefits of walking and cycling to school.

“There are so many small changes we can all make in the way we travel which together have a big impact on the air we breathe. By educating people about these and encouraging more people to get active, the exhibit will continue to build on the excellent progress already made through the My Journey brand.”

Ben Ward, Winchester Science Centre’s Managing Director, added: “I’m delighted that Winchester Science Centre has been able to support Southampton City Council communicate this important public health message in an innovative and fun way.

“It’s great to see how the exhibit prompts children and their families to have discussions about air quality and know that through their experience they’ll be able to make more informed choices.”