Oxford’s new Zero Emission Zone could be the first of many

Britain’s first zero emissions zone (ZEZ) could pave the way for more cities to tackle air quality issues with similar projects.
 
Oxford is today (Feb 28) launching a pilot ZEZ scheme covering nine streets in the city centre with vehicles not qualifying as zero emission vehicles facing daily costs of up to £10.
 
The Oxfordshire County and Oxford City Councils’ initiative has been supported by global environment consultancy Ricardo, which provided an initial feasibility assessment to help define the practicalities of the scheme, outlining its air quality benefits and economic impacts.
 
Guy Hitchcock, Technical Director at Ricardo, said: “The effect of emissions from vehicles on public health is well documented. We have worked with various local authorities in helping them to find ways to reduce the negative impacts of air pollution. Oxfordshire County and Oxford City Councils’ have shown their ambition to move towards zero emission transportation by using our analysis for this pioneering scheme.”
 
In the UK, London has introduced its Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), while Bath and Birmingham have active Clean Air Zones (CAZ). Air quality specialists from Ricardo have supported London in the assessment of its ULEZ and have been working with local authorities in Bradford, Southampton and Cardiff to complete CAZ feasibility studies.

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