ULEZ scheme has lowered air pollution most in London boroughs that opposed it

The Expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Its Impact on Air Quality

The expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in August 2023 has sparked significant debate, particularly among the boroughs that initially resisted the scheme. Boroughs such as Sutton, Croydon, Merton, Bromley, and Harrow were vocal in their opposition to Mayor Sadiq Khan’s plan to extend the ULEZ to all areas of London. However, a recent City Hall study, reviewed by independent experts, has revealed that these very boroughs have experienced some of the most notable reductions in dangerous air pollutants since the scheme’s implementation. The study found that levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx), a key contributor to health issues such as asthma and lung cancer, were 15% lower in these areas compared to what they would have been without the ULEZ expansion. Across outer London as a whole, NOx levels from cars and vans were estimated to be 14% lower. This reduction is a significant step forward in addressing the capital’s long-standing air pollution problem.

The Mechanism Behind the ULEZ and Its Effectiveness

The ULEZ scheme works by charging drivers of polluting, non-compliant vehicles a daily fee of £12.50. This policy has been highly effective in reducing the number of such vehicles on London’s streets. Since the expansion, the number of non-compliant cars in London has decreased by nearly 100,000 on an average day. For those who fail to pay the charge, fines are issued, resulting in drivers paying over £400 million in penalties since the scheme’s expansion, according to an analysis of Transport for London (TfL) figures by the PA news agency. While some have criticized the policy as a financial burden, Mayor Khan has emphasized that the scheme is not “anti-car,” but rather “anti-poison,” highlighting the urgent need to address the health risks posed by air pollution.

The Health Risks of Air Pollution and the Urgency of Action

Air pollution is a critical public health issue in London, with more than 3,500 premature deaths each year attributed to toxic air, according to research by Imperial College London. The ULEZ scheme has been instrumental in reducing these risks. Since its initial launch in 2019, levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), another harmful pollutant, have decreased by 27% across the entire capital. Mayor Khan has compared the fight against air pollution to the historical debates over the dangers of smoking, stressing that the science is clear: air pollution kills. He highlighted that no level of air pollution is safe and that it can lead to a range of serious health issues, including asthma, cancer, heart disease, strokes, and dementia. By reducing pollution, the ULEZ is helping to protect the health and well-being of Londoners.

The Economic and Social Implications of the ULEZ Expansion

While the environmental benefits of the ULEZ are undeniable, the policy has also sparked debate over its economic and social implications. Critics, including some local council leaders, have argued that the scheme places a disproportionate burden on certain groups, particularly those who cannot afford to switch to cleaner vehicles. Colin Smith, the leader of Bromley Council, criticized the “one size fits all” approach, arguing that it has forced people to switch jobs, disrupted care networks, and imposed significant financial expenses on individuals and businesses that have had to purchase new vehicles they may not need or want. These concerns highlight the complex balance policymakers must strike when implementing measures to address environmental challenges.

Public Response and the Broader Impact of the ULEZ

Despite the criticisms, the ULEZ has had a relatively limited impact on daily life in London. The study found no negative effect on footfall or spending in shops and leisure destinations across the city, and no notable change in average traffic flow. This suggests that the scheme has been successfully integrated into London’s transportation network without causing significant disruption to businesses or residents. However, the policy has undeniably changed the way people think about driving in the capital, with many opting for cleaner vehicles or alternative modes of transport to avoid the daily charge. This shift in behavior is a testament to the effectiveness of the ULEZ in encouraging more sustainable choices.

The Future of the ULEZ and Its Lessons for Other Cities

The success of the ULEZ in reducing air pollution and improving public health has important implications for other cities around the world. While the initial resistance from certain boroughs highlights the challenges of implementing such schemes, the data clearly shows that the benefits far outweigh the costs. As cities continue to grapple with the dual crises of climate change and air pollution, the ULEZ serves as a valuable model for how targeted policies can drive meaningful change. Moving forward, it will be crucial to address the concerns of those affected by the scheme, particularly through initiatives that support low-income households and small businesses in transitioning to cleaner vehicles. By doing so, London can continue to lead the way in creating a healthier, more sustainable urban environment for future generations.