London’s ULEZ Shows Dramatic Drop in Air Pollution
A recent report from the city of London highlights the remarkable success of its Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in combating air pollution. The report reveals substantial improvements in air quality since the expansion of the ULEZ, an area where vehicles not meeting modern emissions standards are charged a daily fee to enter.
The ULEZ, championed by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, was first initiated in 2019, and has since expanded significantly. While initially confined to Central London, it now covers all of Greater London, home to nearly 9 million residents. These expansions, however, weren’t without resistance, becoming a key point of contention in UK elections.
The ULEZ charge is £12.50 (approximately $16) per day, and is active around the clock. Notably, while the ULEZ aims to reduce pollution, it’s distinct from London’s Congestion Charge, which focuses on reducing traffic congestion in the city center. The ULEZ’s restrictions aren’t even that strict; most cars manufactured in the last 10 to 20 years meet the requirements. Exemptions also exist for specific vehicle types.
Report Findings: Significant Pollution Reduction
The city’s report reveals dramatic reductions in key pollutants, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and PM2.5, both major contributors to respiratory problems. The data indicates that NOx levels have decreased by 27% in outer London and PM2.5 levels have dropped by 31%. Overall, nitrogen oxides are down 14% across the city. Some areas, such as Central London, experienced even more dramatic improvement, with NO2 levels falling by 54%.
The positive impact extends throughout London, with 99% of air quality monitors registering reduced pollution levels. This is particularly significant considering that, prior to the ULEZ’s implementation, approximately 4,000 Londoners died annually due to air pollution. If the most dangerous aspects of air pollution have dropped by nearly a third, that, in effect, should mean over a thousand lives saved yearly because of the policy.
In addition, the policy has had a disproportionately positive impact on “deprived communities,” which often experience the highest levels of pollution, with exposure to illegal pollution levels decreasing by 80%. The policy has even led to an approximate reduction in carbon emissions equal to that of roughly 3 million individual air trips.
Rise in Electric Vehicle Adoption
Parallel to these improvements, the UK is witnessing a growing trend towards electric vehicle (EV) adoption, with nearly three out of every ten new cars sold in 2024 being electric. This surge in EV popularity, made possible by their availability and appeal, complements the ULEZ policy, creating conditions that make it easier for people to comply.
From June 2023 through September 2024, the number of non-compliant vehicles on London roads decreased by 58%, showing a substantial shift in transportation practices, fueled by a £200 million ($258 million) scrappage scheme designed to help low-income residents replace older vehicles.
Electrek’s Take
These findings support the effectiveness of similar policies in various cities worldwide. Congestion pricing and similar strategies often yield positive results – reducing pollution, easing traffic, and improving travel experiences. The London example underscores the tangible benefits of policies that disincentivize pollution while simultaneously promoting cleaner transportation alternatives, like EVs.
