Engineering news
A recent survey has discovered widespread concern about air pollution in cities.
The research, conducted by YouGov on behalf of the Clean Air Alliance and supported by clean cold technology company Dearman, discovered that 76% of 500 people living in five UK cities – Birmingham, Leeds, London, Nottingham and Southampton - have expressed concern about the levels of pollution in their area.
There was also strong support for action to be taken, with 76% also backing the introduction of Clean Air or Ultra Low Emission Zones in their city.
Only 17% would be less likely to buy from a company that introduces zero-emission vehicles, even if it makes them more expensive.
Dan Byles, chair of the Clean Air Alliance said: “This research demonstrates just how big an issue air quality has become. As awareness of the scale of the problem and evidence of pollution’s impact on our health has grown, people have become justifiably concerned.
“Crucially, there is now a growing national consensus about what needs to be done, with widespread support for the introduction of measures to discourage polluting diesel vehicles and encourage uptake of less polluting alternatives. People are even willing to pay more to be served by companies that use low emission vehicles.
“The Government and local authorities have been presented with a once in a lifetime opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment and on people’s health. It’s vital that decisive action is taken now to address all the most polluting vehicles on our roads – not just the ones that are most obvious – and to reduce pollution where it does the most harm.”
Toby Peters, Founder and chief executive of Dearman added: “Not only is there recognition about the problem, but huge support for Clean Air Zones as part of the solution. We are clearly at a crossroads and people across the country aren’t just calling for a change of direction, but many are now willing to back companies and authorities that demonstrate leadership. This will only continue to gather momentum and hopefully we are on the verge of cleaner air for everyone.”
This research was conducted as plans are being developed to introduce Clean Air Zones in five British cities (Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham, Derby & Southampton) and the Mayor of London has announced an intention to extend the proposed Ultra Low Emission Zone. There was also broad support for some form of taxation or charging to address the most polluting vehicles and encourage the uptake of alternatives. Only 11% of people suggested that none of the most polluting vehicles should be charged.