Air pollution falling in London, but millions still exposed

According to the newly updated data of the London Atmospheric Emission Inventory,2 million people living in areas with toxic air, including 400,000 children. However, nitrogen dioxide levels are falling and could reach legal levels within six years. It also shows that between 2013 and 2016, total nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) emissions fell by 9%. However, over the same period, the number of primary schools in illegally polluted areas barely changed, going from 371 to 369, while the number of secondary schools affected grew from 81 to 86, according to City Hall.

Sadiq Khan, who has been mayor of London since May 2016, has moved the cleanest buses to the most polluted routes and introduced a charge for highly polluting vehicles that enter the city center. This is being toughened from 8 April with the start of an ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) that penalizes more diesel cars, the primary source of NO₂.

“From the very outset I have been crystal clear that I would do everything in my power to tackle London’s toxic air crisis,” said Khan. “The data I’ve published today gives an even clearer picture of the urgent need to take action.” He said the Ulez would be the first in the world to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.