London air pollution deaths down 40% on Ulez, study finds

Key facts

• Deaths linked to air pollution in London have fallen by an estimated 40% since 2019.
• A study by Imperial College London found the decrease in deaths.
• The study also found significant reductions in nitrogen dioxide pollution.
• The study also found significant reductions in particulate pollution.
• Mayor Sadiq Khan attributed the improvements to the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez).
• The Ulez scheme charges older, more polluting vehicles to enter central London.
• The Ulez was expanded in October 2021 to cover a larger area within the North and South Circular roads.

Deaths attributed to air pollution in London have seen an estimated 40% reduction since 2019, according to a new study conducted by Imperial College London. The research, which analyzed pollution levels and health outcomes, also identified significant decreases in both nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations across the city. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has attributed these positive environmental and health developments to the implementation and expansion of his Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) policy. The Ulez scheme, which charges older, more polluting vehicles to enter central London, was expanded in October 2021 to cover a larger area within the North and South Circular roads. This expansion aimed to further reduce traffic emissions and improve air quality. The Imperial College London study provides data supporting the effectiveness of such measures in mitigating the harmful effects of air pollution on public health. Reductions in NO2 and PM2.5 are critical as these pollutants are linked to a range of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The findings suggest that the Ulez policy is contributing to a healthier environment for London's residents, with the 40% drop in pollution-linked deaths being a substantial public health achievement. Further analysis of the study's data is expected to provide more granular insights into the specific impacts of the Ulez on different areas of London and various demographic groups.