: Measures aimed at reducing congestion and air pollution in major cities through Low Emission Zones (LEZs) and Congestion Charging Zones (CCZs) have been linked to significant health benefits, according to a new review conducted by researchers from Imperial College London.
The review analyzed published scientific evidence regarding the health impacts of LEZs and CCZs in various cities across the UK, Europe, and Asia. The findings revealed that the implementation of LEZs was associated with a decline in measures of cardiovascular disease, such as hospital admissions, while the introduction of CCZs led to an overall reduction in road traffic injuries.
Dr. Anthony Laverty, a Senior Lecturer within the School of Public Health at Imperial College London, highlighted that air and noise pollution from road traffic can have detrimental effects on cardiovascular health, including increased blood pressure and respiratory issues. However, LEZs and CCZs have shown direct benefits to public health, specifically in relation to cardiovascular disease and road traffic injuries.
LEZs are designed to curb ambient air pollution in cities by restricting or charging the most polluting vehicles, while CCZs aim to reduce traffic congestion by charging vehicle owners for driving in certain areas. The review emphasizes the importance of these measures in improving air quality and public health. Nevertheless, the authors urge careful consideration of implementation, considering potential impacts on lower-income groups, as poor air quality disproportionately affects the most vulnerable populations.
The research, supported by various organizations including the UKRI Medical Research Council and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), reinforces efforts to reduce private motor vehicle use, especially older and more polluting vehicles, in urban areas. The study concludes that continued monitoring and evaluation remain crucial in optimizing the benefits of LEZs and CCZs on public health. The research does not cover the London Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) or its expansion, requiring further investigation. The comprehensive findings have been published in The Lancet Public Health.
https://www.imperial.ac.uk/news/245774/low-emission-congestion-charge-zones-linked/