Find out more through:
On this page you'll find information on electric transport, active travel, public transport and car sharing, open fires and wood burning stoves and air quality in Elmbridge.
Electric transport
If you're thinking about purchasing an e-car or an e-bike, take a look at:
- Zap-map: you can find more than 20,000 public charge points and search for electric vehicle models
- GOV.UK: Low-emission vehicles plug-in grant: with this grant for vehicle dealerships and manufacturers, you may be able to receive a discount on the price of brand new low-emission vehicles
We have also installed many charging points across the borough. To find out more about your nearest charging point see Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points. You can also read about our anti-idling campaign to see how we are promoting an idle-free Elmbridge for our future.
Active travel
Replacing car journeys with walking and cycling is an important aspect of carbon reduction, as well as a good way to support your wellbeing.
Not only does it help keep you and the planet healthy, but it can also help save you money.
In Elmbridge, we are lucky to have many scenic walking and cycling routes along the river, as well as around our heaths and green spaces.
Get involved in active travel in Elmbridge
You can get involved through wellbeing walks and cycles and the cycle network.
Wellbeing walks
Find out more about how you can join one of the wellbeing walks that take place in the borough.
Wellbeing cycles
As well as wellbeing walks, wellbeing cycle rides also happen in Elmbridge. Find out more about how you can join.
Surrey County Council cycle network
Planning to go on a cycle in the borough? The Surrey County Council cycle network will help you plan your route. On the Surrey County Council website, you can also view the Surrey Interactive Map, and learn about free cycle training courses.
There are also plans to improve walking and cycling in Surrey. Find out more about the Elmbridge Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan.
Public transport and car sharing
Public transport provides us with an environmentally friendly way of getting around, while car sharing schemes and clubs can also help to reduce the number of cars on the road.
How do I find out about travelling by public transport in Elmbridge?
Where can I find out more about car sharing and car clubs in Elmbridge?
Visit these sites for more information:
Open fires and wood burning stoves
Open fires and wood burning stoves have risen in popularity. However smoke, and the particulates it contains, cause air pollution which can harm your health and those around you.
Read our tips for using wood burning stoves
Choose the right appliance
Wood burning stoves create less pollution than open fires, but you should choose a stove that is ‘ecodesign ready’ and future-proof yourself.
Buy ‘Ready to Burn’ fuel
Wet or unseasoned wood holds moisture which contains harmful particulates when burned - dry wood should have 20% moisture or less. Look for the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo as a guarantee of high-quality dry wood.
Use approved solid fuels
These products generate less smoke compared to house-coal when burned - they can also be more efficient, and therefore more economical.
Consider burning less
Think about how much fuel you are using and why you are lighting your fire. If it is a secondary heating source, ask yourself if it is necessary.
Don’t burn treated wood or household rubbish
Treated waste wood and household rubbish can emit harmful fumes and toxic pollutants into your home when burnt.
Complete regular maintenance
You should maintain your stove annually to maximise efficiency, as well as regularly having your chimney swept, as this reduces the risk of chimney fires.
For further guidance, please see:
Elmbridge air quality
Key air quality measurements are taken in Elmbridge. To read more about our annual air quality status reports and our Air Quality Action Plan see local air quality measurements.
You can also sign up to airAlert to receive alerts when air pollution levels are high in your area.
