Calls to tighten LEZ rules after report finds diesel cars emit more than thought
The study, commissioned by Transport Scotland, says Euro 6 models pollute more in reality than during testing
Last updated 14th Jun 2023
The majority of newer diesel cars are still over-emitting harmful fumes, according to new research which could have implications for Glasgow's Low Emission Zone which came into force two week ago.
A report commissioned by Transport Scotland found that most Euro 6 vehicles, which are allowed into the LEZ pollute more in real life compared to testing.
However, the scientists found that significant improvement has been made since the Dieselgate scandal, which saw car companies misreport the emissions cars created in 2015.
Scotland adopted the Cleaner Air for Scotland strategy to address air pollution and its public health impact.
Vehicle checker - are you allowed into the LEX?
Low Emission Zones
Alongside plans to encourage a modal shift from cars to public transit and reduce overall on-road traffic, the strategy also supports local authorities in developing, implementing, and enforcing low-emission zones in several major cities.
Glasgow launched its low-emission zone earlier this month.
The study analysed real-world nitrogen oxide (NOx), hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) vehicle emissions data, collected by remote sensing technology, in the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow during October 2021.
Transport Scotland commissioned TRUE Initiative and partners to conduct the studies, with further plans for testing and analysis of fleets in Aberdeen and Dundee.
Yoann Bernard, who co-authored the report, said: "This data clearly demonstrates how much progress has been made in reducing pollutant emissions across all vehicle types, but also shows where the largest emitters lie.
"This report provides insightful analysis which policymakers can leverage to improve air quality not only across cities in Scotland, but in other countries as well."
READ MORE: Rush to to buy cleaner cars to beat LEZ fines
'It has to keep us safe'
Joseph Carter from the charity, Asthma and Lung UK, said: "If there are much higher air pollutions than expected because of these newer vehicles not being as clean as you might like to think - that is a concern.
"If we do find, over time, that the LEZ is not working because of this reason or for any others, and they need to look at the limits again then we'd welcome that.
"Ultimately, the Low Emission Zone in Glasgow has to keep us safe, it has to be protecting our lung health."