Low Emission Zone for Greater London

A Low Emission Zone would aim to reduce air pollution by discouraging the most polluting vehicles from driving within Greater London. These are generally older, diesel-engine heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), buses, coaches, heavier vans and minibuses.

Air pollution affects the quality of life of a large number of Londoners, especially those with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. It is estimated that every year some 1,000 premature deaths and a similar number of hospital admissions occur due to poor air quality in the Capital. Many more people experience discomfort as a result of pollutants aggravating existing conditions.

Two of these pollutants - particulate matter and oxides of nitrogen - are particularly harmful to health. Road transport is responsible for around two thirds of emissions of particulate matter and around two fifths of emissions of oxides of nitrogen in London.

The Mayor's Transport and Air Quality Strategy Revisions
The introduction of a Low Emission Zone in London would require revisions to both the Mayor's Transport Strategy and Air Quality Strategy. In July 2006, following public and stakeholder consultation, the Mayor made a decision to publish the revisions to his Transport and Air Quality Strategies and proceed with the next stage of development of proposals for a Low Emission Zone

For further information, please visit the following webpage:

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/low-emission-zone/