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Long before the Industrial Revolution took hold, concerns over air pollution in London were raised and documented, as outlined in the Library of �鶹Ů��’s latest .

John Evelyn’s Fumifugium, or, The inconveniencie of the aer and smoak of London dissipated : together with some remedies humbly proposed was printed in 1661, five years prior to the Great Fire of London. 

Each term a member of the Library staff selects a text from �鶹Ů�� Library’s historic collections. 

Sara Fedeli, Assistant Librarian (Reader Services), says: “I was immediately fascinated by this pamphlet which deals with the topic of pollution in 17th century London. Not only did I discover that the air was unbreathable many years before the start of the industrial revolution, but it allowed me to learn more about its author, John Evelyn. A little-known historical figure, but one to whom we owe the diffusion of innovative ideas such as adapting public spaces for climate change, or growing trees to purify the London air. Funnily enough his descendants 200 years later had similar views. W.J. Evelyn's donation of the family estate, Sayes Court, to the public – and a consequent discussion with social reformer – contributed to the formation of the National Trust.”