A CHARITY coalition has called for urgent actions from the Welsh Government to combat air pollution and save lives.

Healthy Air Cymru, a partnership between various charities, universities and the NHS, say the 1,300 lives that are cut short in Wales each year can be linked to the effects of air pollution.

Many of those who die “prematurely”, namely before the age of 75, already have underlying heart of lung conditions.

With towns such as Newport and Chepstow recently featuring prominently in the list of areas breaching air quality guidelines, the group’s chair Joseph Carter believes the time for action is now.

“Air pollution in Wales is continuing to damage people’s lungs, especially those who are vulnerable such as children, because of their developing lungs, and those with lung conditions,” said Mr Carter, who is also the head of British Lung Foundation Wales.

“We are urging Welsh Government to introduce a network of clean-air zones across the most polluting areas of Wales, alongside promoting clean and active travel.”

Mr Carter has also called for those in the Senedd to support calls for a diesel scrappage scheme and the promised Clean Air Fund to feature in the UK Government’s imminent Autumn Budget announcement.

Earlier this year it was revealed that the Conservatives were considering offering some diesel car owners compensation to scrap or modify high-polluting vehicles.

Mr Cater believes both schemes can generate money which can be put towards solving some of the air pollution problems in the Wales.

“Investing in solutions, alongside legislation and education, is one of the main ways we are going to clean up the air we all breathe,” he added.

Healthy Air Cymru is made up by the British Lung Foundation, British Heart Foundation Wales, Client Earth,.Friends of the Earth Cymru, Living Streets, and Sustrans Cymru.

Public Health Wales, Royal College of Physicians and Swansea University are also part of the alliance.

The Welsh Government were contacted for comment.