CAZ: What You Need to Know About UK Clean Air Zones

To improve air quality, the UK is in the process of implementing Clean Air Zones (CAZ) in several major cities across the country.

These zones are designed to reduce pollution, in a bid to improve the health of pedestrians and reduce harmful emissions.

What Are Clean Air Zones?

A CAZ is an area where targeted action is taken to improve air quality.

These zones can either be non-charging or charging, meaning certain vehicles that do not meet emission standards may be required to pay a fee (or a fine) to enter or move through the zone.

The aim is to reduce air pollution levels. In particular the nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) – which have are known to be extremely harmful to human health.

Where are clean air zones UK?

As of 2024, CAZs have been established in several cities, including:

• London
• Birmingham
• Bristol
• Bath
• Bradford
• Portsmouth
• Newcastle (and Gateshead)
• Sheffield
• Edinburgh
• Glasgow

Some cities focus more on commercial vehicles (such as Bath) while others charge private cars.

For more information visit the clean air zone information on the Government website, or the low emission zones Scotland website.

Benefits of CAZs

Evidence from Birmingham’s CAZ, which was launched in June 2021, shows significant reductions in NO2 levels at busy roadside locations within the zone.

It has also been found that NO2 levels have reduced on roads outside the CAZ. This is an early sign of broader behavioural changes.

Despite these successes, researchers recommended that more stringent policies are needed to address PM2.5 pollution.

As levels at monitoring sites still regularly exceed WHO guidelines - posing health risks? according to a piece done by the  University of Birmingham.

Support for CAZ 

Understanding that transitioning to cleaner vehicles can be challenging for individuals and businesses, the UK government offers various forms of support.

This includes grants from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles and initiatives through local authorities to help with vehicle upgrades, cycling to work schemes, or accessing cleaner transport options. Find out more at  GOV.UK.

Arguments Against CAZ

Clean Air Zones have faced criticism due to their financial impact on individuals and small businesses.

This is particularly true for those who are unable to afford the cost of a vehicle upgrade.

Concerns also extend to the potential displacement of pollution to areas outside the CAZs, which could worsen air quality elsewhere.

Generally, public opinion seems divided, with some seeing CAZ charges as necessary for environmental improvement and others viewing them as a punitive tax.

What is the future of CAZ?

While CAZs represent a significant step towards cleaner air, they are just one part of a broader strategy to tackle air pollution.

The upcoming ban on new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 underlines the Government's commitment to reducing emissions.

However, achieving compliance and adapting to these changes will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, and the public?.

As the UK moves forward with its clean air strategy. The continued expansion and adaptation of CAZs, alongside other initiatives like promoting electric vehicle uptake, will be critical in achieving long-term improvements in air quality.