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London's Zero-Emission Zone for Freight Vehicles to Launch in 2025

London's new zero-emission zone for freight vehicles could save lives and boost the city's economy by millions each year.

Graffiti is on the train. These are cables. Background there are houses with windows.
Graffiti is on the train. These are cables. Background there are houses with windows.

London's Zero-Emission Zone for Freight Vehicles to Launch in 2025

Air pollution in London has reached alarming levels, with the entire city exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. This results in approximately 4,000 premature deaths annually, a figure equivalent to the salary of nearly 1,500 nurses. To combat this, the Greater London Authority has proposed a zero-emission zone for freight vehicles in central London, expected to be operational by 2025.

Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and vans, which constitute only 20% of vehicles in inner London, contribute a significant 39% of all NOx road transport emissions. The proposed zero-emission zone aims to tackle this issue head-on. In its first year, it is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by a substantial 285,000 tonnes. This significant reduction would not only benefit the environment but also London's productivity, with 'damage costs' to the city's economy and environment expected to decrease by nearly £90m each year. Furthermore, this initiative could bring substantial health benefits, potentially saving the NHS and healthcare services over £50m a year.

The zero-emission freight zone in central London, set to launch in 2025, promises substantial environmental, economic, and health benefits. By targeting a significant source of pollution, it aims to improve air quality, reduce emissions, and alleviate pressure on healthcare services, making it a crucial step towards a cleaner, healthier London.

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