London Mayor Sadiq Khan reaffirms his commitment to ULEZ vehicle emission standards, and “has no plans to move the goal posts.” This decision comes amidst ongoing debates about the impact of ULEZ on air quality, congestion, and the lives of Londoners.
The Current ULEZ Standards
The ULEZ, which was expanded to cover all 33 London boroughs in August 2023, aims to tackle air pollution by imposing a daily charge on vehicles that do not meet specific emission standards. Currently, petrol vehicles with a Euro 4 engine or newer and diesel vehicles with a Euro 6 engine or newer are exempt from the £12.50-a-day levy. This effectively means that most petrol cars registered after 2005 and diesel vehicles registered after 2015 comply with the rules.
The Impact of ULEZ Expansion
The expansion of ULEZ has had a measurable impact on air quality in London. According to Transport for London (TfL), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) roadside levels in outer London have decreased by 4.8% since the zone’s expansion. Additionally, according to The Standard, the number of non-compliant vehicles in the outer London “doughnut” has fallen significantly, from 170,000 in June 2023 to 71,000 by September 2024.
However, the expansion has not been without its challenges. While air quality has improved, the total volume of traffic in London has increased, leading to higher congestion levels and it’s getting worse says TomTom. Critics argue that the scheme disproportionately affects certain groups, such as small business owners and residents in outer boroughs, who may rely on older, non-compliant vehicles.
Calls For Further Action
Despite the progress, some campaigners believe the current ULEZ standards do not go far enough. Groups like Mums for Lungs have called for stricter regulations on diesel vehicles and additional measures to tackle other sources of pollution, such as wood-burning stoves. However, Mayor Khan has made it clear that he has no intention of tightening the existing ULEZ emission rules at this time.
Balancing Act
Mayor Khan’s decision to maintain the current standards reflects a balancing act between improving air quality and addressing the concerns of Londoners. He has emphasized that the ULEZ is not about generating revenue but about creating a healthier environment for all. “Londoners have done, and are doing, the right thing: getting rid of non-compliant vehicles and, when they need a car, getting a compliant vehicle,” he stated.
Looking Ahead
As London continues to grapple with the challenges of air pollution, climate change, and congestion, the ULEZ remains a cornerstone of the city’s environmental strategy. While the current standards will stay in place, the introduction of Euro 7 emission rules in July 2025 could set the stage for future changes, says TfL.
Overall, Mayor Sadiq Khan’s decision to stick with the existing ULEZ standards underscores his commitment to a pragmatic approach to environmental policy. By maintaining the current rules, he aims to build on the progress made while addressing the diverse needs of London’s residents and businesses.
