The Rise of Clean Air Zones

Research shows that nitrogen dioxide levels in London, England, have exceeded far over the legal limit. This news brings in Bath’s new CAZ (clean air zone), which will become England’s first viable CAZ outside of the city. In this blog, we’ll be going over the rise of clean air zones across the UK.

Transport’s contribution towards the dangerous NO2 levels was much larger than the national average. Expanding towards Bath and the North East Somerset regions, vehicle pollution is liable for up to 92% of total Nitrogen oxide concentration. Due to this, it is imperative that the number of polluting vehicles travelling into cities must decline. 

Eligibility Criteria for Clean Air Zones

Bath’s clean air zone will be in operation 365 days a year; all vehicles, excluding private cars and motorbikes, will have to pay a fee to enter the zone. It is predicted that charges will apply to around 200,000 journeys within the first year. The amount payable depends on the type of vehicle being driven. Vehicles that pollute more will have to pay a more significant fee. In contrast, smaller vehicles and taxis would pay around £9 a day. 

How does this Compare to Elsewhere in England?

In comparison to London’s Ultra Low Emission zone, Bath’s is not as strict. The most significant difference is around the eligibility of private vehicles; in London, any car that does not meet the minimum criteria has to pay a non-negotiable £12.50 fee. On the other hand, in Bath, diesel vehicles devoted the most NO2 concentration; hence their exemption of private diesel cars is somewhat astonishing!

Why is reducing harmful emissions in urban areas so important?

In 75% of urban areas, NO2 levels remain extortionate, proving that air pollution in towns and cities is becoming an increasing problem. From a health perspective, increasing levels of air pollution are concerning. For instance, in Bath and North Somerset, 12,000 people have asthma, and high levels of air pollution can trigger attacks. Also, six million people aged over 65 are at increased risk of lung damage and asthma attacks due to toxic air!

Do Measures like Clean Air Zones Positively Impact?

In London, since ULEZ was introduced, 44,100 fewer polluting cars are driving in the zone daily, meaning NO2 levels have been reduced by 44%. The scheme has also saved 12,300 tonnes of CO2 emissions; simultaneously, the project saw a 96% increase in vehicles in the zone that consent with the ULEZ standards. 

Although fewer polluting vehicles is vital, the ULEZ and CAZ zones have also swayed individuals buying preferences. More and more people are making the switch from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric and hybrid cars, with a further 63% of drivers considering an EV as their next conquest. 

At Fleet Evolution, it’s our mission to get as many people as possible into green cars. Whether that is general employees accessing great green products at vastly reduced rates by giving up monthly salary via our salary sacrifice scheme or essential users going green for the benefits to the planet, their pockets, and your pockets. If you’re interested in a green car salary sacrifice scheme for your company, contact us today!