Introducing Ulez was my hardest decision as mayor of London – but now we know its astonishing impact | Sadiq Khan
Critics said I was attacking motorists. It’s more important for me that the city’s children are no longer breathing dangerous levels of pollution Ulez led to better lung size and function among London children, study finds When I introduced London’s clean air zone – the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) – more than seven years ago, no city had ever attempted anything quite like it. At the time, the…
Mayor Sadiq Khan introduced London's Ultra-Low Emission Zone (Ulez) over seven years ago, a decision that sparked fierce opposition and criticism from various quarters. At the time, it was unprecedented for any city to implement such a scheme. However, Khan's commitment to improving air quality in the capital was his top priority, even if it meant challenging the status quo and facing the wrath of critics.
Despite the initial resistance, including opposition from mainstream political parties, the Ulez has proven to be a resounding success. Recent research from Imperial College London has revealed that the zone has significantly reduced air pollution and improved air quality across London. This progress has not only earned the support of those who once opposed it, but it has also saved lives, with estimated deaths associated with air pollution falling by around 40% between 2019 and 2024.
Now, a new, independent study published by Queen Mary University of London adds further weight to the Ulez's impact. The study shows that, by helping to clean up the capital’s air, the Ulez is also improving the lungs and lives of London’s children. This is a crucial finding, as children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, and any intervention that can safeguard their respiratory health is of paramount importance.
The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, can now take pride in knowing that his decision to introduce Ulez has had a profound and positive effect on the health and well-being of the city's youngest residents.
Written by urgent.news from Guardian Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
