London Meets Legal Nitrogen Dioxide Limits First Time in 2024

London has achieved a historic milestone by meeting the legal Air Quality Standards for nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) pollution for the first time, nearly 200 years ahead of earlier projections. This progress is largely attributed to bold environmental policies under Mayor Sadiq Khan, including the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which expanded city-wide in 2023 and significantly increased compliance with low-emission vehicle standards. Roadside NO₂ levels have almost halved since 2016, and over 2,000 zero-emission buses have been introduced alongside expanded electric vehicle infrastructure. Despite the success, challenges remain for taxi and private hire drivers facing high costs and limited charging access in transitioning to zero-emission vehicles, prompting calls for targeted financial support and infrastructure improvements. The milestone represents a major public health victory, potentially reducing thousands of premature deaths annually linked to pollution-related diseases, while setting a benchmark for other UK cities still exceeding legal pollution limits. Mayor Khan has committed to further improvements, aiming to align London’s air quality with World Health Organization guidelines and continuing collaboration with government and local partners.