London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone Is Changing School Journeys, But Challenges Remain

London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has reshaped the way children travel to school, improving air quality, increasing safety, and promoting healthier lifestyles. A new study published in BMJ Open and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) provides compelling insights into these benefits, highlighting how families are adapting to the changes. While many parents and teachers report fewer asthma-related symptoms and more enjoyable commutes, the study also identifies challenges—particularly for families in outer London, where public transport options may be limited.

Air Pollution and the Need for Change

London’s road traffic is a leading contributor to air pollution, exacerbating health conditions like asthma in children. The study notes that one in 11 children in London has asthma, with vehicle emissions significantly worsening their symptoms. Additionally, reliance on cars reduces opportunities for active travel—walking or cycling—that can prevent obesity and chronic illness.

Since its introduction in 2019, the ULEZ has successfully reduced nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) levels by 53% in central London, 24% in inner London, and 21% in outer London, according to Transport for London (TfL). The policy also discourages car use, making streets safer and less congested.

Children and Families Adjusting to ULEZ

The BMJ Open study, conducted by researchers from the University of Cambridge and Queen Mary University of London, examined the ULEZ’s impact on school commutes through interviews with 21 families and seven teachers. The findings reveal that 42% of children who previously traveled by car switched to walking or cycling after ULEZ was introduced.

Parents and teachers noted several positive changes:

• Cleaner Air and Better Health: Teachers observed fewer asthma-related incidents among students, while parents reported breathing easier on daily walks.
• Safer Streets and More Active Travel: With fewer vehicles, families felt encouraged to take longer, more scenic routes home, increasing physical activity.
• Changing Family Routines: Parents who stopped driving enjoyed more quality time with their children during commutes.

Dr. Olivia Alliott, lead author from the Medical Research Council (MRC) Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge, emphasized the importance of making such policies inclusive:

"Policies like the ULEZ play a crucial role in promoting a healthier school journey for many families. However, their success depends on ensuring that everyone has access to affordable and reliable alternatives to driving."

Barriers to Transitioning Away from Cars

Despite its advantages, the ULEZ expansion presents difficulties, particularly for families living in outer London, where public transport is often less reliable or more expensive. The study found that:

• Cost of Vehicle Compliance: The scrappage scheme, intended to help families replace non-compliant vehicles, did not fully cover the cost of a new car.
• Public Transport Gaps: Some families found that using public transport was more expensive than driving, making the transition challenging.
• Limited Alternatives: Families with longer commutes often parked outside the ULEZ and walked the remaining distance to school.

Professor Chris Griffiths, joint senior author from the Wolfson Institute of Population Health at Queen Mary University of London, highlighted the broader social impact of the ULEZ:

"This important study shows how policies like the ULEZ affect how families live, travel, and experience their environment. The systemic effects go beyond simply cleaning the city air."

ULEZ boundaries 2019, 2021 and 2023. ULEZ, Ultra Low Emission Zone.

Photo Credit: BJM Open

Lessons for Future Policy and Global Applications

The study’s findings reinforce the need for better integration of public transportation and active travel options to ensure that environmental policies do not disproportionately burden lower-income families. Experts suggest that investing in affordable and well-connected transport across all boroughs is key to maximizing ULEZ’s benefits.

As cities worldwide explore similar measures to tackle air pollution, London’s ULEZ provides a valuable case study on both its successes and challenges. While the policy has encouraged healthier school commutes, the disparities in accessibility highlight the importance of equitable implementation.

With the ULEZ expanding across Greater London, ongoing evaluation will be critical in refining approaches that balance public health benefits with economic feasibility for all residents.