Why is the ULEZ expanding across all of Greater London?

In November 2022, the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan announced that the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) would be expanding to cover all of Greater London.

The expansion means that anyone who drives a vehicle that is not compliant with emission standards will have to pay £12.50 a day to drive within the zone. 

The announcement received mixed reactions from many including boarding boroughs and residents. 

With many disagreeing and others questioning if it is needed, Transport for London (TfL) has shared why the ULEZ expanding across all of Greater London.

The findings are clear: Exposure to air pollution can lead to an increased risk of dementia.

The Govt has the power to change this, by:
1. Taking bold action to reduce pollution
2. Implementing more ambitious air quality targets

— Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan (@MayorofLondon) April 6, 2023

Why is the ULEZ expanding across all of Greater London?

According to TfL, they share that the ULEZ is expanding to “help clear London’s air and improve health.”

It comes as research has shown that the poor air quality in London is “mainly caused by polluting vehicles.”

The TfL shared that the latest data from London Atmospheric Emissions Inventory showed that although “improvements are being made, road transport is the single biggest contributor of nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter emissions in Greater London.”

Further knowledge is that air pollution is leading to the development of cancer, asthma and lung disease and a higher risk of dementia in older people.