Diesel Vans Overtake Taxis as Central London's Biggest Polluters

Kathmandu – Fresh data reveals that diesel vans have surpassed taxis as the largest source of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions on central London’s roads.

An analysis of the London Atmospheric Emissions Inventory (LAEI) by the think tank Clean Cities found that in 2022, vans were responsible for 108 tonnes of NOx emissions, compared with just 78 tonnes from taxis and 60 tonnes from cars. This marks a major shift, as taxis were the primary culprits for NOx pollution in central London in 2019.

The notable decline in taxi emissions is attributed to the widespread electrification of the city’s black cab fleet. However, the analysis warns that vans are set to remain the largest road contributor to NOx by 2030 unless more businesses and charities switch to electric vehicles.

In response to the data, Clean Cities is urging the Mayor of London to offer a 100% Congestion Charge discount for electric vans operated by small businesses and charities to incentivise the move away from diesel. This call is backed by nearly 100 charities and businesses that have written to City Hall requesting support for cleaner transport.

The air quality issue is of significant concern, as NOx produces nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), a gas linked to severe health problems, including asthma attacks and stunted lung growth in children. The Clean Cities analysis found that despite progress, London still fails to meet both UK legal limits and the more stringent World Health Organisation guidelines.

A spokesperson for City Hall pointed out that progress has already been made, stating that van emissions in central London had dropped by 14% between 2019 and 2022. They also noted that overall road transport NOx emissions across London have fallen by an impressive 52% since Sadiq Khan became mayor in 2016. The spokesperson added that London is "showing itself as a global leader" in tackling air pollution and climate change.

Zak Bond, a campaign manager for Clean Cities, said the new figures demonstrate the urgent need for more action to curb pollution from vans. He called on London's mayor and boroughs to promote the use of electric vans and cargo bikes.

Jemima Hartshorn, founder of the campaign group Mums for Lungs, expressed alarm at the findings, saying the toxic air from vans is "stunting" children's lungs and sending them to hospital.

Transport for London's (TfL) consultation on proposed changes to the Congestion Charge has concluded, with a response expected to be published shortly.