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The potential impact of Low and Zero Emission Zones on air quality in European cities

Support to the Clean Cities Campaign position on the proposed new Ambient Air Quality Directive by providing evidence for the current and potential future impact of Low and Zero Emission Zones on air quality

Client

Clean Cities Campaign/Transport and Environment 

Focus

LEZs are a key tool for cities taking positive action on air quality, and ZEZs are being proposed across Europe. We assess what their potential could be, providing evidence for the Clean Cities Campaign. 

Purpose

Support the CCC’s position on the proposed new Ambient Air Quality Directive by providing evidence for the current and potential future impact of Low and Zero Emission Zones on air quality, through a rapid evidence review and expert analysis. 

What we delivered

  • A rapid evidence assessment of reported impacts of LEZs and predicted future impact for the latest round of zones. 
  • Evidence to show that: 
    • Well-designed, carefully implemented and stringently enforced LEZs can make a significant contribution to improving air quality in urban areas. 
    • In terms of Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5), the potential for reduction by LEZs and ZEZs is smaller.  
    • LEZs can positively improve air quality in areas outside the Zone and prior to full implementation (pre-compliance).  
    • The impact of a LEZ inevitably reduces over time, as older vehicles are naturally replaced. 
  • The full review can be read here 

 

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We have worked with AQC on a number of occasions and have always been pleased with their service.

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