The key stat that backs up Sadiq Khan’s Ulez expansion in London: ‘The evidence is overwhelming’

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said expanding the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was “crucial” after a new study estimated a 40 per cent reduction in deaths linked to toxic air in the capital over five years.

Ulez, currently the world’s largest pollution loading zone, was first extended into inner London in October 2021.

The reach was further expanded to cover the entire city in August 2023.

Vehicles that fail to meet minimum emissions standards and are not exempt must pay a daily fee of £12.50 to enter the zone.

A new report by Imperial College London’s environmental research group predicts that the number of premature deaths attributable to air quality in London will be 3,800-5,100 in 2024, up from 6,400-8,000 in 2019.

The work was commissioned by the Greater London Authority and London Transport.

Previous research estimated the number of premature deaths due to air pollution at 4,000 in 2019.

The new study used a “more scientifically robust approach,” the authors said.

The researchers also found that fine particle pollution, which are extremely small particles that can have a serious impact on health, fell by 28% from 2019 to 2024.

The report does not isolate the impact of Ulez or any other policy.

Improving air quality has been a key priority since Sir Sadiq took office in 2016.

In addition to the introduction of Ulez in April 2019, other relevant measures include a scrappage scheme for older, more polluting vehicles, providing air quality filters in schools and increasing the number of electric buses.

Sir Sadiq said: “The evidence is now overwhelming and indisputable: the bold action we took in London has reduced pollution, improved public health and saved lives.

“We know that a wide range of diseases, from childhood asthma to dementia, are linked to air pollution.

“This latest data shows why expanding Ulez across London is more important than we previously thought and is transforming lives in our capital.

“The decision to expand Ulez was not an easy one, but it has now been proven beyond doubt that it is vital to protect the health and lives of Londoners.

“However, I am not complacent. Despite our incredible progress, there is still much to do.”

Jemima Hartshorn, founder of campaign group Mums for Lungs, said: “This research shows that big schemes like Ulez really do help clean the air. And cleaner air means healthier Londoners.”

“But thousands of Londoners die from air pollution every year. Londoners, and the rest of the country, need more action too.”