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

Healthy Air Cymru say that the effects of air pollution can be linked to 1,300 “premature” deaths in Wales per year.

The group, a partnership of charities, universities and health services, estimate that air pollution, while not not necessarily the direct cause of death, cuts lives short by about six months.

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

But 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 to tackle what is seen as a contributing factor in such deaths is now.

“Air pollution in Wales is continuing to damage people’s lungs, especially those who are vulnerable, such as children, 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.

A Welsh Government spokeswoman said: “We are firmly committed to reducing emissions and improving air quality across Wales and earlier this year issued new guidance to local authorities on air quality management.

“We will continue to work with local authorities and other stakeholders and the minister intends to hold a debate on the clean air framework for Wales in the assembly before Christmas.

“We urge the Chancellor to use the Autumn Budget as an opportunity to deliver initiatives that will improve air quality across the UK.”