The recent expansion of the Ultra-Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) in Greater London has shown positive results in reducing harmful emissions, according to new data from London City Hall. The expansion, implemented across all London Boroughs, has led to a 3.5% decrease in harmful roadside emissions. Nitrogen oxide (NOX) gases, a significant pollutant, have dropped by 13% from car traffic and 7% from vans.
One of the key factors contributing to this reduction is the £12.50 daily charge imposed by the ULEZ, prompting many motorists to switch to newer, ULEZ-compliant vehicles. This has resulted in an increase in the number of ULEZ-compliant cars in the outer Boroughs, rising from 93% to 97.1% in just six months.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan expressed satisfaction with the ULEZ expansion, stating that it has exceeded expectations in improving air quality and reducing pollution levels in the city. However, despite these positive outcomes, the recent expansion has not been as effective as the original implementation of the scheme back in 2019.
The initial ULEZ expansion had significantly reduced harmful emissions in Central London by 48% and in Inner London by 21%. In contrast, the latest expansion to outer London has delivered minimal reductions in air pollution, prompting criticism from some quarters. The Conservative candidate, Susan Hall, had even pledged to scrap the ULEZ, considering it as part of a “war on motorists.”
Despite the criticism, the ULEZ has proven to be a lucrative revenue stream for Transport for London (TFL). In its first month, the scheme generated £23.6 million, increasing to £130 million within five months. TFL has committed over £210 million to a scrappage scheme, offering drivers of non-ULEZ-compliant vehicles a financial incentive to switch to cleaner alternatives.
Looking ahead, TFL anticipates that the ULEZ scheme will not start making a profit until 2026. The scheme aims to encourage the adoption of cleaner vehicles while addressing air pollution in London. As discussions continue around the effectiveness and impact of the ULEZ, it remains a focal point in the city’s efforts to improve air quality and reduce harmful emissions. Share your thoughts on the ULEZ and its impact in the comments section below.