Ulez just the start and similar scheme needed for buildings, experts warn

Imposing Strict Controls on Car Exhausts Only Partially Improves Air Quality, Scientists Warn

New measures are needed to address emissions of nitrogen oxides and other air pollutants from buildings, heating plants, and various domestic and industrial sources in the UK, in addition to imposing strict controls on car exhausts, according to scientists. The need to maintain air quality, especially in cities, is crucial as air pollution is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the country. Providing clear air for people to breathe is an easy task that can have a significant impact on public health.

London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez)

London’s ultra low emission zone (Ulez) has been a subject of controversy as drivers are charged for the polluting impact of their vehicles. The zone is being expanded by the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, to cover all boroughs in the city. However, this decision has faced opposition and criticism from some drivers and political figures. The extension of Ulez is expected to improve air quality in London’s outer areas, but pollution levels will remain relatively high in the central area.

The Role of Buildings in Air Pollution

Scientists at the Wolfson Atmospheric Chemistry Laboratories at the University of York have highlighted the significant contribution of buildings to air pollution. Approximately half of the nitrogen dioxide pollution in central London comes from buildings rather than vehicles. While measures have been taken to improve pollution from cars, buses, and lorries, the issue of pollution from houses, offices, and factories remains unaddressed.

• Greater congestion in the inner city leads to higher pollution levels as vehicles emit more pollutants when braking and accelerating.
• Space heating, particularly from typical gas boilers and combined heat and power sources, produces significant amounts of nitrogen oxides.

The problem of air pollution caused by space heating is expected to become increasingly important in the coming years. It is crucial to take action now to tackle this issue and prevent a future impasse where air pollution levels cannot be reduced further.

The Impact of Hydrogen as a Fuel Source

There is a misconception that burning hydrogen as a fuel source for heating buildings produces only water vapor and is therefore a clean process. However, the heat generated from burning hydrogen causes nitrogen molecules to break apart and form nitrogen oxides, which are pollutants. If hydrogen is to be used as a substitute for fossil fuels, immediate plans need to be put in place to limit the pollution produced by machines that burn hydrogen.

Emphasizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Air pollution is a major cause of preventable deaths in the UK. Improving air quality is crucial for promoting good health and well-being.
2. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – Addressing air pollution from buildings requires finding cleaner and more sustainable energy sources for heating.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Maintaining air quality, especially in cities, is essential for creating sustainable and livable urban environments.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action – Tackling air pollution is an important aspect of climate action, as reducing emissions from various sources contributes to mitigating climate change.

In order to achieve these SDGs, it is crucial to implement measures that go beyond controlling car exhausts and include addressing emissions from buildings, heating plants, and other domestic and industrial sources. By taking immediate action and considering the impact of alternative fuel sources like hydrogen, it is possible to cut air pollution while working towards a sustainable future.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Indicator: Air pollution levels in urban areas.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 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.
   • Indicator: Air quality in cities, particularly in inner city areas.

The article addresses the issues of air pollution in the UK, particularly in cities like London. The following SDGs are connected to the issues highlighted:

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Based on the content of the article, the specific targets that can be identified are:

1. Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
2. Target 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.

The article mentions the need to maintain air quality, particularly in cities, and highlights the high levels of air pollution in London. It also mentions that air pollution is one of the highest causes of preventable death in the UK. These indicators can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Indicator: Air pollution levels in urban areas.
• Indicator: Air quality in cities, particularly in inner city areas.

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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