Bradford Council’s efforts to improve the district’s air quality have won it a runners-up gong at the 2014 Sustainable City Awards.

Bradford is the first city in West Yorkshire and only the second in the country to adopt a Low Emission Strategy aimed at reducing air pollution and improving health in the district.

Councillor Andrew Thornton, the council’s executive member for the environment, said: “I am delighted that the Sustainable City Awards have recognised our efforts to improve the environment of Bradford for its residents.”

Studies show links between air pollution and health problems such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems and low birth weights.