Zero Emission Zones: Mayor of London supports the future role of zero emission zones in the capital
- Perry Richardson
- Dec 31, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Jan 2
The debate over the role of zero emission zones (ZEZs) in reducing pollution, traffic, and congestion in London was reignited in the London Assembly. Zack Polanski, a Green Party Assembly Member, directly questioned Mayor Sadiq Khan on the future of these zones within the capital’s broader transport strategy.
In his response, the Mayor emphasised his commitment to a cleaner, greener London. He highlighted the need to address the pressing challenges of air pollution, climate change, and congestion. As part of this vision, Khan pointed to ongoing efforts to promote ZEZs, including local authority-led trials in areas such as the City of London, Hackney, and Islington.
Transport for London (TfL) has played a supporting role in these initiatives, publishing guidance in 2019 to assist councils in developing ZEZs. According to the Mayor, TfL has since engaged local authorities through workshops and meetings, aiming to ensure the success of these zones.
Khan also referenced the capital’s existing environmental policies, such as the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), the Congestion Charge, and emission-based licensing for taxis and private hire vehicles. He underscored the progress already made in reducing vehicle emissions, installing EV charging infrastructure, and transitioning TfL buses to electric power.
While the Mayor reaffirmed his support for ZEZs as a key tool in reducing emissions and encouraging the use of public and active transport, he stopped short of announcing any new initiatives.
Khan said: “Zero emission zones continue to form part of the wide suite of measures available to local authorities to reduce emissions from road transport by supporting vehicle upgrade and mode shift to active travel and public transport.”
