ULEZ Expansion Cuts London Pollution, Boosts Health

The expansion of London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has led to significant reductions in air pollution, particularly benefiting the city's most deprived communities. Since its expansion in August 2023, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions have decreased by 15% in outer London boroughs, and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels have fallen by 14%. Fine particulate emissions have also dropped by 31%. The scheme charges drivers £12.50 for non-compliant vehicles, reducing the number of polluting cars by nearly 100,000 daily. Despite initial opposition and legal challenges, the policy has had no negative impact on business footfall or spending. Mayor Sadiq Khan emphasizes that these improvements were crucial for public health, countering past predictions that it would take 193 years to reach legal air quality limits in London.