Ulez helped London cut road pollution faster than rest of UK, report says
Ulez helped London cut road pollution faster than rest of UK, report says The Guardian
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Sadiq Khan Hails Progress in Improving London’s Air Quality
A report produced by the Greater London Authority (GLA) and Transport for London (TfL) has shown that London’s air quality has significantly improved under the tenure of Mayor Sadiq Khan. The study revealed that roadside pollutant levels in the city have been falling faster than elsewhere in the UK.
Ultra-Low Emission Zone (Ulez) Plays a Key Role
The report attributes a good proportion of the improvement to the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez), which was extended to all London boroughs last summer. This expansion of the clean air zone requires older and more polluting vehicles to pay a £12.50 daily charge.
Despite opposition from the Tory central government and even Labour leader Keir Starmer, Sadiq Khan implemented the Ulez expansion. Khan, who is seeking re-election in May, aims to highlight his environmental credentials.
Impressive Reductions in Pollutant Levels
According to the research, roadside levels of NO2 pollutants fell by 49% between 2016 and 2023. Even during the extended periods of lockdown in 2020 due to the Covid pandemic, pollutant levels were lower last year.
The report also highlights that London’s population has increased by over a million people during this period, making the reduction in pollutant levels even more impressive. The fall in pollutant levels in London surpasses the reductions seen in England as a whole (35%), Scotland (39%), Wales (31%), and Northern Ireland (27%).
Impact of Ulez and Other Initiatives
The Ulez has played a significant role in improving air quality in London. Launched in central London in 2019 and expanded in 2021 and last summer, the Ulez has contributed to a 65% reduction in overall air pollution concentrations in central London since 2016. Other initiatives, such as the introduction of more electric and hybrid buses and the shift towards electric or less-polluting private vehicles, have also contributed to the improvements.
Continued Efforts Needed
While the progress is commendable, Sadiq Khan’s office acknowledges that pollution levels in the city are still projected to exceed World Health Organization guidelines by 2030. To address this, a new £5.3m fund has been allocated to 17 boroughs for initiatives aimed at reducing emissions from canal and river boats and limiting engine idling in commercial vehicles.
Concerns Over Silvertown Tunnel
The report does not address the potential impact of the Silvertown tunnel, a new road link across the Thames between Greenwich and Newham. Campaigners argue that the tunnel will worsen pollution in one of the city’s most polluted areas, while City Hall claims it will improve bus services and reduce congestion.
Emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being – Improved air quality contributes to increased life expectancy and reduced hospital admissions for respiratory conditions.
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The Ulez and other initiatives align with efforts to create cleaner and more sustainable cities.
- Goal 13: Climate Action – Reducing air pollution is crucial for mitigating climate change and achieving global climate goals.
Conclusion
Sadiq Khan celebrates the remarkable progress made in improving London’s air quality, with roadside pollutant levels falling faster than in other parts of the UK. The success of the Ulez and other initiatives demonstrates the city’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of health, sustainable cities, and climate action. However, continued efforts are needed to ensure that pollution levels meet international guidelines and create a healthier environment for all Londoners.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
- SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.9: Reduction in roadside levels of NO2 pollutants and air pollution concentrations in London.
- Indicator for SDG 11.6: Improvement in air quality in London, reduction in NO2 levels, and decrease in the number of air quality monitoring sites showing NO2 levels beyond the UK’s annual legal limit.
- Indicator for SDG 13.2: Implementation and effectiveness of measures to improve air quality, such as the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) and initiatives to reduce emissions from vehicles.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | – Reduction in roadside levels of NO2 pollutants and air pollution concentrations in London. |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. | – Improvement in air quality in London, reduction in NO2 levels, and decrease in the number of air quality monitoring sites showing NO2 levels beyond the UK’s annual legal limit. |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning. | – Implementation and effectiveness of measures to improve air quality, such as the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) and initiatives to reduce emissions from vehicles. |
Note: The specific indicators mentioned in the table are based on the information provided in the article.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: theguardian.com
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