Study shows London’s Low Emission Zones are saving lives - and boosting the economy

The introduction of Low Emission Zones (LEZ) in the UK has long sparked debate. When London launched its LEZ in 2008, targeting older diesel-engine lorries, buses, coaches, large vans and minibuses, many questioned its effectiveness. Concerns were raised about its impact on businesses and the wider economy, and doubts only intensified with the arrival of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in 2019 and its expansion in 2023. It became the strictest policy of its kind in the world, covering all London boroughs and including cars, vans and motorcycles that fail to meet emissions standards.  

But behind these controversial policies lay a stark reality. In 2010, an estimated 9,400 people in London died prematurely due to long-term exposure to air pollutants like PM2.5 and NO2. Air pollution affects everyone, but it disproportionately harms children, the elderly and those with existing heart or lung conditions. People living in deprived areas, often closer to busy roads, are hit hardest. The LEZ and ULEZ schemes were introduced with clear goals: to reduce harmful emissions, improve air quality and protect public health.

Fast forward to 2025, and the picture has changed dramatically. Today, nearly 97% of vehicles driven in London meet ULEZ emission standards, up from just 39% in 2017. This indicates a widespread adoption of cleaner vehicles in the city and as a result, the vast majority of drivers in London do not need to pay a daily charge.

More importantly, new research by the University of Bath reveals that the LEZ and ULEZ schemes are delivering meaningful results, not just in cleaner air, but in better health and economic gains.

The study found that after the introduction of more stringent LEZ standards (Phase 2), NO2 levels dropped by 5.8% and PM10 by 9.7%. The impact of the ULEZ was even more striking: NO2 fell by 21% and PM10 by 15%, demonstrating how targeting a broader range of vehicles had an even greater effect.

These improvements have had a significant ripple effect. Since the launch of LEZ, the likelihood of Londoners taking sick leave has fallen by an impressive 18.5%, a result that has been directly linked to better air quality. The study also recorded a 6.8% reduction in general health issues and a 10.2% drop in respiratory conditions. Beyond physical health, Londoners are also feeling better mentally. Reports of anxiety have dropped by 11%, while measures of happiness, worthiness and satisfaction have all increased. In economic terms, this adds up. With fewer sick days and improved productivity, the LEZ is estimated to save the economy £37 million per year.

The results speak for themselves; clean air policies like London’s ULEZ aren’t just environmental wins, they’re delivering measurable benefits for people’s health, wellbeing and the economy. At Zest, we’re working to support the shift to cleaner transport by making it easier for drivers to transition to electric. As more drivers make the switch, we remain committed to building the infrastructure needed to support healthier, more sustainable communities for the long term.