Posted on the 2nd October 2025 in PHTM News

LONDON MEETS LEGAL LIMITS FOR TOXIC NO2 FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 2024

New air quality data from Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) reveals that London met the Air Quality Standards regulations for the first time in 2024.

In London, around 4,000 premature deaths per year were previously attributed to toxic air and a recent report from the Royal College of Physicians estimates that air pollution costs the UK more than £27 billion per year.

Air pollution increases the risk of developing asthma, lung cancer, heart disease and stroke, and there is growing evidence that air pollution exposure increases the risk of developing dementia.

London is leading by example when it comes to air quality, with other major cities including Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham - with smaller populations and fewer vehicles - still exceeding the legal limits.

London has the world’s largest clean air zone, the ULEZ, which has led to a massive jump of vehicles seen driving in London being ULEZ compliant from 39 per cent when first introduced to 97 per cent.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This is incredible news. I'm thrilled that London has achieved this historic milestone of meeting the legal limits for nitrogen dioxide for the first time.

"It wasn't always easy. When we first introduced the ULEZ and then expanded it London-wide, we faced huge pressure from different quarters who wanted to obstruct and slow us down. But pressing on was the right thing to do. It's made an even bigger difference that we predicted.

"I'll continue to work with the Government, London boroughs and partners to continue building a healthier, greener, fairer London for everyone.”

Danny O’Gorman, General Manager at Freenow by Lyft UK said: “London meeting legal NO2 limits is a major milestone and demonstrates the power of bold policy. To build on this, all urban transport, including taxis, must accelerate their decarbonisation efforts. Despite the ambition, many drivers face significant hurdles: high vehicle costs, limited charging infrastructure and few incentives to switch to EV.

“Our research highlights the urgency: nine in ten black cab drivers consider making EV taxis more affordable essential, with 72% citing financial impact from vehicle costs as a key barrier. The Mayor of London and TfL must step in with stronger support, including targeted subsidies, expanded charging networks, and tailored policies to help drivers transition quickly and affordably. Accelerating taxi electrification isn't just about cleaner air; it's about creating a sustainable, reliable transportation network for everyone.

“At Freenow, we actively support this shift. 78% of vehicles on our UK platform are now electrified. Moreover, our partnerships with BP Pulse and OVO are helping drivers reduce charging costs, directly addressing one of the main barriers to going electric.”


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