Petition · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Make it illegal for drivers to idle engines outside schools.

Open for signatures 261 signatures

What the petition asks

We call on the UK Government to make it illegal for drivers to keep car engines running while stationary outside schools, and to introduce penalties or mandatory environmental awareness courses for those who do.
Children are especially vulnerable to air pollution because their lungs are still developing, and many schools are near busy roads. Even one minute of engine idling releases unnecessary pollution, increasing the risk of asthma and breathing problems and contributing to climate change. Banning idling outside schools, with fines or environmental awareness courses, would reduce emissions and help keep children healthy and safe.

Timeline

19 May 2026 Petition opened for signatures

Key facts

Signatures 261
Status Open for signatures
Department Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Opened 19 May 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.