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For a better London: "car-free days" to counter air pollution

Recipient profile picture Sadiq Khan
i
8 November
Dear Sadiq Khan,
I am writing to you today to express my concerns regarding the level of air pollution in London. First, I would like to note that it is encouraging to see that the Capital is striving to act on this problem through the implementation of policies such as the Low Emission Zone, Emissions Surcharge or the Congestion Charge Zone. Nonetheless, establishing a price on our actions is not in itself enough - and real action is needed to tackle an issue which represents an immense harm to ourselves and our planet. A prejudice to ourselves insofar as air pollution is the source of health challenges such as respiratory or heart diseases. Indeed, in numbers, the threat of long-term exposure to polluants represents more than 4.000 deaths per year in London, as well as £1.4 - £3.7 billion in healthcare costs each year. A harm to our planet inasmuch as air pollution is the root of countless environmental issues. By being the main source of pollution in London, with more than 50% emission of polluants such as Nitrogen Dioxide or Particulate Matter 10, road vehicles are responsible for ozone depletion, acid rain and global warming. With 99% of London exceeding the World Health Organisation’s air pollution limits, an alarming assessment arises. However, the analysis of our actions and those of our governments is not enough. Rather, it is only sufficient to highlight the deeds that need to be corrected. By being a substantial source of pollution in London, road vehicles are proving to be the main culprits, requiring concrete condemnation. A feasible solution would be to multiply the number of “car-free days” in the year, so as to attain an objective of one day per week without road transports. Indeed, the restriction of road vehicles during a lapse of time has undeniable effects on reducing the emission of polluants into the air. With the “journées sans voitures” in Paris in 2015, a decrease of 40% of air pollution has been noted. In 2019, after banning vehicles on several roads in London, a 60% increase in air quality has been observed at the Regent Street monitoring site. Coupled with their ability to promote non-motorised transports such as cycling, as well as a healthier lifestyle, “car-free days” may prove to be the key to reducing air pollution in London. I look forward to hearing from you with regards to your views on the subject. Thank you very much in advance for your help and attention. Yours sincerely,

Dounia Zavarzine

Author profile picture Dounia Zavarzine

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