Transport for London (TfL) has launched a new five-year programme designed to tackle emissions produced by freight and fleet operators in the capital.
The programme, called ‘LoCITY’, will aim to see an upsurge in both the availability and uptake of low emission vans and lorries. TfL hopes to improve polices, procurement and land use planning to increase the use and viability of these low emission vehicles.
“Over the next five years LoCITY will begin improving London’s air quality by encouraging the take up of low emission vehicles,” said Mike Brown MVO, London’s transport commissioner. “We’re working with vehicle manufacturers, infrastructure providers and the industry to make these vehicles a realistic choice for operators.
“Together we can improve London’s air quality, and by supporting the freight sector – which is essential for our city to function – we will have a real impact.”
The programme will also create new environmental operating standards and contractual clauses for procurement bodies. As well as this, the project hopes to improve alternative fuel infrastructure – for example, electric charging points and the use of hydrogen.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson MP, said: “Helping the freight industry is key to the success of the Ultra Low Emission Zone. I am confident that the strict tightening of our emission standards will help dramatically improve air quality and lower NO2 across the city.”
