Every Child's Future Matters - Sustainable Development Commission

Key judgement
“Action is taken to promote children
and young people’s physical health”
In urban areas, the maximum recommended
levels of some pollutants are often exceeded 88 and
proximity to landfill sites, industrial zones, busy roads
and aircraft noise is a reality for many families,
particularly those with low incomes. Local authorities
can take a lead in promoting cooperation between
local agencies whose work impacts on children
within the authority’s area – planning, environment,
health, transport and housing departments are just
a few examples. The duty to cooperate is specified
in Section 10 of the Children Act 2004. 89 The goal
is to ensure that children and young people have
an opportunity to live in neighbourhoods that are
conducive to healthy, sustainable living. While
children’s services cannot achieve this alone, a
broader ‘place shaping’ approach can contribute
effectively to this goal. 90
“I think under NO circumstances should
London’s green spaces be built on.”
Young person’s view of the London Plan
in respect of climate change. 94
“Action is taken to promote children
and young people’s mental health”
Research shows that time spent in green space can
have restorative qualities 91 and can help to reduce
anxieties. 92 Where schools have developed their
grounds as a resource for environmental learning and
action, many have been surprised by the sustained
popularity of their efforts, for example gardening
clubs which grow healthy food for the school canteen
while providing wildlife habitats and compost heaps
which divert waste from landfill. 93 Where school
grounds are of a high quality, providing access to
them out of school hours and during holidays can
increase exposure to green space for children and
young people.
Key judgement
Every Child’s Future Matters 27