ULEZ cuts number of worst polluting cars in central London

(The Guardian, 16 May 2019) Mayor hails ‘significant impact’ in first month of capital’s ultra-low emission zone.

The number of the worst polluting cars and vans driving into central London dropped sharply in the first month of the ultra-low emissions zone.

Initial figures show that on average 9,400 fewer such vehicles entered central London each day in April compared with March. There were 36,000 fewer than in February 2017 when the ultra-low emission zone plans were announced, though much of that drop could be attributed to drivers switching to cleaner vehicles.

London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, said the findings showed that “bold action reaps rewards”. Clean air campaigners said it was an important step in the fight against air pollution.

“Just one month after launching the world’s first ULEZ … we have already seen a significant impact on the types of vehicles driving in the centre of our capital and polluting our air,” Khan said. “These were big changes, and vital ones – our toxic air is an invisible killer responsible for one of the biggest national health emergencies of our generation.”

The number of the worst polluting vehicles in the zone fell from 35,578 in March to 26,195 after the charge was introduced. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of vehicles in the zone in April complied with the new pollution limits, compared with 61% the month before.

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The Guardian, 16 May 2019: ULEZ cuts number of worst polluting cars in central London