Mayor Sadiq Khan wants to expand the already existing low-emission zone in inner-city districts to all parts of the British capital by the end of August and ban dirty vehicles as much as possible, the Labor politician announced on Friday.
To be able to drive for free in London when the low-emission zone is extended, petrol vehicles must at least meet the Euro 4 emission standard, diesel vehicles the Euro 6 standard and motorcycles the Euro 3 standard. a fee of 12.50 pounds per day (14.50 euros) must be paid for this.
“Air pollution is making us sick from cradle to grave, research shows,” Khan said. By expanding the zone, five million more people can breathe better air and live healthier lives. In the zones where the rules already apply, the air quality has improved significantly. “We have no time to lose when lives are at stake and we face a climate crisis,” Khan said.
He also announced £110 million for a scheme to make it easier for Londoners to switch to less polluting vehicles or other modes of transport. Subscriptions with the program can also be subsidized under certain conditions. In addition, the bus network will be expanded.
The social-democratic politician has been fighting for years to improve air quality in London. He also sees this as a matter of social justice. The poorest Londoners live in the areas with the worst air quality, Khan said – and often don’t own a car themselves.
(SDA)