What is London ULEZ and why is it there?

London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was introduced in April 2019 in an effort to improve air quality in the city. The ULEZ is a charge that applies to drivers of older, more polluting vehicles that do not meet the emissions standards set by the European Union. The aim of the charge is to encourage drivers to switch to cleaner, more environmentally-friendly vehicles and reduce the levels of harmful pollutants in the air.

The ULEZ charge initially applied to the same area as the existing Congestion Charge zone in central London, but from October 2021 it will be expanded to cover a larger area of London, bounded by the North Circular and South Circular roads.

The ULEZ has been introduced in response to the air pollution crisis in London, which is estimated to cause over 9,000 premature deaths each year. The main pollutants of concern are nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), which are largely produced by diesel vehicles. The ULEZ aims to reduce these pollutants and improve air quality in the city.

The introduction of the ULEZ has been successful in reducing levels of air pollution in central London. In the first year of operation, there was a 13% reduction in nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels in the ULEZ area, and a 44% reduction in the number of older, more polluting vehicles entering the zone. This suggests that the ULEZ is having a positive impact on air quality and is encouraging drivers to switch to cleaner vehicles.

However, there are concerns that the expansion of the ULEZ may have a negative impact on drivers who cannot afford to switch to cleaner vehicles, particularly those living in poorer areas of the city. Critics have argued that the ULEZ is a regressive tax that will disproportionately affect those on lower incomes. There are also concerns that the expansion of the ULEZ will lead to an increase in the number of fines issued to drivers who are unaware of the charge or unable to pay it.

Despite these concerns, there is evidence to suggest that the ULEZ is a necessary measure to tackle the air pollution crisis in London. According to the Mayor of London's office, air pollution is the second biggest public health issue facing the capital, after smoking. The health costs associated with air pollution are estimated to be over £3 billion per year, and the benefits of reducing pollution are likely to far outweigh the costs of the ULEZ.

In conclusion, the Ultra Low Emission Zone is a necessary measure to improve air quality in London, which has some of the highest levels of air pollution in Europe. While there are concerns about the impact of the ULEZ on drivers and businesses, the evidence suggests that it is having a positive impact on air quality and is encouraging drivers to switch to cleaner vehicles. The expansion of the ULEZ in October 2021 will further reduce pollution levels in London and contribute to a healthier, cleaner environment for all.