Donal Hickey: Engine idling — and why it's so dangerous for humans and animals

We literally have to cut the engine idling. Exhaust fumes are especially harmful to children, pregnant women, older people and people with chest illnesses. Engine idling while on school or sports activities pick-up duty is a contributor to exhaust fume pollution

Leaving the engine running is not needed to keep the car warm. A car typically stays warm for 30- 60 minutes after the engine is turned off, giving plenty of time to drop off or pick up a child.

It happens every day outside practically every school and on many streets. Engine idling is so widespread that we scarcely take any notice, even if it is bad for our health and the environment, as well as wasting fuel.

Apart from schools, we have buses waiting for passengers and vehicles making deliveries, never mind the long lines of cars coming to a virtual standstill in traffic congestion.