Three quarters of vehicles in Edinburgh comply with low emission zone
A new study suggests certain types of vehicles are struggling to comply with Edinburgh's low emission zone
Last updated 1st Mar 2023
Three quarters of vehicles travelling into Edinburgh are compliant with the city's low emission (LEZ) zone, according to a new study.
But there are certain types of vehicles which are still not up to standard.
The LEZ came into forced last May - alongside those in Glasgow, Dundee and Aberdeen.
It means that any vehicle travelling through the city centre zone which does not meet minimum emissions standards will be subject to fines.
But a two year grace period means no penalties will be issued until June 2024.
The initiative was brought in to help improve air quality and protect public health.
According to the data analysed by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) more than half of diesel cars and a third of light goods vehicles (such as transit vans) travelling on the main routes into Edinburgh don’t currently comply with the requirements of the city’s LEZ.
73% of taxis were compliant, showing some work is still needed there.
Almost all buses and 95% of petrol cars are compliant, as are 86% of HGVs.
Dr Colin Gillespie, Air Modelling Unit Manager at SEPA, said:
"The development of LEZs across Scotland is built on science led by SEPA’s air quality modelling work. As part of the development of Edinburgh’s LEZ scheme, councillors used bespoke modelling tools to make informed decisions on the most appropriate way to achieve air quality improvements across the city. This latest data shows positive changes are being made, such as the increasing numbers of electric or hybrid vehicles being registered.
"Air pollution is one of the most important environmental health risks of our time, so the introduction of LEZs will aim to accelerate air quality improvements in the most polluted areas of our cities. SEPA is proud to play an important part in this collaborative work."
Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said:
"Last year we joined cities across Scotland to introduce a city centre LEZ, which will play a central role in lowering harmful emissions in Edinburgh. We all have the right to breathe clean air and it’s our duty to do everything in our power to drive down air pollution and protect public health.
"Of course, these kinds of changes take some adjustment, and the two-year grace period is giving people time to prepare and make sure they avoid penalties once enforcement begins. It’s really encouraging that compliance is on the rise across all kinds of vehicles, with the LEZ helping to accelerate this positive transition towards cleaner vehicles. Thanks to all those who have made the change.
"There’s still some way to go though, and I’d urge everyone travelling into Edinburgh to find out more about the LEZ, the support on offer and options for travelling more sustainably – choosing to walk, wheel, cycle or use public transport is the best way to help keep Edinburgh’s air clean."