London’s air has become significantly cleaner since ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) was expanded to cover the whole capital in 2023, according to a study produced by the Greater London Authority – the study was reviewed by an independent panel of experts, chaired by Dr Gary Fuller of Imperial College London.

The report found that London’s air quality was improving at a faster rate than that of the rest of England, with outer London boroughs and more deprived areas of the capital seeing significant falls in pollution.

Small particle emissions (PM2.5) from vehicle exhausts were 31% lower in outer London compared to what they would have been without the ULEZ expansion – this takes into account the much smaller improvement which would have come from more modern cars and bikes replacing older models. Roadside nitrogen dioxide levels have dropped by 27% since the central London ULEZ was first introduced in 2019. Motorcycles to Euro 3 standards and above are exempt from the charge, as are historic vehicles – bikes can also be independently tested to gain exemption.

Jim Freeman, chair of the BMF said, “No surprises there, then. I’m waiting for the study of air quality in the Underground system, especially particulates. We may wait some time for that one. As the growth in the battery electric sector develops I would expect the levels to drop further. There may come a time when the air on the streets is cleaner than in our homes. The ban on wood burning stoves will make a much greater difference to air quality than vehicle emission reductions.”

Written by Peter Henshaw

Top image courtesy of Julian Walker