The London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is the largest clean air zone in the world. It covers every borough of London. Drivers of vehicles that don’t meet certain emission standards need to pay a daily charge to drive in the zone.
Outcome
Harmful roadside NO2 concentrations are estimated to be:
53% lower in central London than they would have been without the ULEZ and its expansions.
24% lower in inner London than they would have been without the ULEZ and its expansions.
21% lower in outer London than they would have been without the ULEZ and its expansions.
Source: ULEZ Facts | London City Hall, consulted on 2/9/2024
Why
In the years before the implementation of LEZ, London’s ambient air pollution was the worst of any city in the UK and amongst the worst in Europe. Levels of key pollutants such as PM and NO2 exceeded national and European air quality targets. As a result, LEZ was introduced February 2008 in four stages to target road traffic pollution in almost all of Greater London. Each stage sets increasingly demanding emission standards on vehicles, targeting specifically the most polluting ones.
How
A phased implementation allowed for gradual adjustment and learning, providing time for people and businesses to adapt. Scrappage schemes and grants were crucial in helping people and businesses transition to cleaner vehicles. The ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) camera network is the backbone of ULEZ enforcement, enabling automated compliance checks. Non-compliant vehicles are subject to daily charges, with penalties for non-payment.
Trade-offs
Safe vs. Sustainable:: Financial burden on some drivers. The ULEZ charge can be a financial burden for individuals and businesses who own older, non-compliant vehicles, particularly those with lower incomes. This may lead to difficulties accessing essential services or jobs in the ULEZ area.
Safe vs. Sustainable:: Potential impact on businesses. Small businesses that rely on vehicles for deliveries or operations may face increased costs due to the ULEZ charge or the need to upgrade their fleet.
Safe vs. Freedom: Public Opposition. The ULEZ expansion has faced significant public opposition, with some arguing that it unfairly penalizes drivers and disproportionately affects those in outer London boroughs who may have fewer public transport alternatives.
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